Abstract:

India has witnessed remarkable growth over the last few decades, however, the mobility infrastructure has not kept pace with the demand. For urban India, in order to address the twin challenges of pollution and congestion, a number of government initiatives have been launched. While there are multiple examples of such initiatives, the magnitude and complexity of the mobility challenges requires a comprehensive action-agenda that addresses the issues holistically. In the context of these challenges, this exhaustive study of global examples and learning from India’s past efforts proposed a holistic framework. The crown of the framework defines the overall objectives - (1) Clean: Pollution-free, leading to clean air and hence better health and living standards; (2) Convenient: Seamless, safe, affordable, accessible for all sections including the elderly & disabled and connected – both in terms of technology as well as connecting key rural and urban centers and (3) Congestion-free: Minimum congestion levels, and hence enhanced economic efficiency. To achieve the objectives, the report highlighted following action-agenda around four key pillars, namely, (a) Connect Bharat, (b) Optimize travel footprint, (c) Promote seamless, co-operative transport, and (d) Adopt green modes and technologies. These pillars have to be well supported by a common set of enablers – Skills and employment, Intelligent Transport Systems, Public Awareness, Governance and Financing.