India has been at the forefront in building a proper transport system for its cities as it continues to grow with its population. The Union Minister, Shri Manohar Lal, recently revealed that India will soon feature as one of the countries in the list that host the world’s second largest metro network. With a few metro projects in the queue, the country is all set to transform its urban mobility in the years to come. The most obvious first step to overcome the challenges this rapid urbanization has presented would be to expand metro networks across Indian cities and introduce modern solutions to urban transport.
Expansion of Metro Networks Across India
The Indian urban mobility landscape has seen a gigantic change over the last few years. While speaking, the Minister-Shri Manohar Lal-said that today, it is 993 kilometers of metro rail operational across 23 cities in the country. Besides, around 997 kilometers of metro rail are under construction in 28 cities. Aggressive expansion depicts the commitment this country has towards improving the urban transport infrastructure to support rising numbers of its urban population.
The government’s plans for developing the metro network are quite an important measure in enhancing the urban transport plan and reducing traffic jam. These metro services find a much-needed place today as among the most practical, green, and reliable modes of transportation-the country needs them big time for the future too.
Building Urban Transportation with RRTS and e-Bus Programs
This also comprises investment in Regional Rapid Transit Systems, which connects major cities and urban centers to each other for forming a seamless integrated network of urban transport. It is part of the broader plan for creating sustainable mobility ecosystems in cities. The funding pattern and progress of RRTS were discussed during the recent meeting of the consultative committee of MoHUA.
Besides metro networks, there is the PM-eBus Sewa scheme to cater to the growing demand for public transportation in cities. Under this scheme, the government will deploy 10,000 electric buses, or e-buses, under a PPP model. These e-buses will provide cleaner and environmentally friendly modes of transport in urban areas and also aid in the reduction of pollution while enhancing urban mobility. The salient features of this scheme are:
10,000 e-buses in cities with population between 3 to 40 lakhs
10 years of bus operations support for sustainability
Upgradation of the bus depots to house the new fleet of e-buses
Behind the meter power infrastructure supporting the electric buses.
E-buses integration with the urban transport system will be an important enabler that will take the country forward along the lines of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or Self-reliant India, envisioned by the Make in India plan. It will help utilize homegrown technology and curb imports through strengthened local economies.
The ‘One Nation One Card’ Initiative
The newly developed innovation in the urban Indian transportation scenario is the ‘One Nation One Card’ policy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled the National Common Mobility Card, NCMC, in March 2019. With a single card, a passenger can travel comfortably through metro, rail, bus, and other mass transit services. It makes it easy to travel using the public transport system without having multiple cards for varying transport mediums.
Metro Projects of Major Cities
The central and state governments have begun undertaking numerous metro projects which include Delhi, Jaipur, Patna, Lucknow, and many others across cities. The Delhi Metro is the only example or, first metro project in this nation for many such similar small urban cities. New upcoming projects under which other small metropolies or megas are coming up at cities like Jaipur Metro, Patna Metro, and Lucknow Metro.
The unprecedented urbanization has resulted in a surge in demands for metro services in these cities. The connectivity among residents will be improved, which is sure to increase accessibility across the city and thereby drastically reduce travel time and minimize congestion along roads.
Addressing the Key Issues in Urban Mobility
There have been many concerns debated in the recent MoHUA consultative committee meeting concerning some of the issues raised on issues pertaining to urban mobility. This includes last-mile connectivity, upgrades on amenities, scaling metro services, and upgrading comfort for passengers. So when the metros are developed all over the cities that would be very significant and helpful in making the transports smooth and efficient for the people.
Shri Manohar Lal has sought suggestions and feedback from MPs so the plans of urban mobility shall be further refined by giving due importance to their considerations. The government shall not compromise in ensuring that all metro and public transport infrastructure projects serve the purpose in the most comfortable, accessible, and sustainable way for the people.
Conclusion
India’s metro network is an enormous effort to revolutionize the nation’s urban mobility. By 2025, India will be the world’s second-largest metro network with almost 2,000 km of metro rail operational or under construction in 51 cities. Such developments and e-buses and One Nation One Card, will shape the country towards more sustainable and efficient transportation for the nation’s future urban inhabitants. The future seems bright, promising quicker, cleaner, and hassle-free travel experiences for citizens living in towns and cities.
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