Menu

Central Institute of Road Transport

The Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) is a research, training, and consultancy institution based in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It works primarily in the field of road passenger transport, supporting State Road Transport Undertakings (SRTUs) and other transport organisations through applied research, technical evaluation, human resource development, and advisory services.

Key facts

Name Central Institute of Road Transport
Acronym CIRT
Type Research and training institute
Location Pune, Maharashtra, India
Field Road transport, public transport management
Country India

Background

CIRT was established to serve as a national-level resource centre for the road passenger transport sector in India. The institute provides a common platform for SRTUs and other public and private operators to access research findings, training programmes, and technical services aimed at improving the efficiency, safety, and economy of bus-based public transport.

The institute is closely associated with the Association of State Road Transport Undertakings (ASRTU), which represents the collective interests of state-owned bus transport corporations across India.

Activities

Training

CIRT conducts training programmes for officers, supervisors, and technical staff of road transport undertakings. The courses cover areas such as transport management, operations, finance, human resources, maintenance engineering, fuel efficiency, and road safety. The institute also organises management development programmes and customised training for sponsoring organisations.

Research and consultancy

The institute carries out studies on subjects relevant to bus operations, including vehicle performance, fuel economy, emissions, route planning, fare structures, and passenger amenities. It also undertakes consultancy assignments for state governments, transport corporations, and other agencies.

Vehicle and component testing

CIRT operates testing facilities used for evaluating buses, components, lubricants, and other materials used in road transport. The institute provides technical evaluation reports that assist transport undertakings in procurement and standardisation decisions.

Information and publications

CIRT compiles statistical data and publishes reports related to the performance of state road transport undertakings in India. These publications are widely referenced for benchmarking and policy analysis in the public transport sector.

Significance

As a dedicated institution for the road passenger transport sector, CIRT plays a supporting role in capacity building and standardisation across India's bus transport network. Its work with SRTUs contributes to the modernisation of public bus services, which form a major component of intra-city and inter-city travel in the country.

References