[Answered] India’s rapid urbanization poses challenges for ideal transit solutions. Analyze how current urban planning balances sustainability and cost-effectiveness in developing transport infrastructure, impacting livability and social equity in cities.

Introduction:

With over 40% of India’s population projected to live in urban areas by 2035 (UN World Urbanization Prospects), the demand for sustainable and cost-effective urban mobility is intensifying. Transit planning now lies at the intersection of infrastructure, environment, and equity.

The Challenge of Urban Transit in India

1. Growing Urban Sprawl: India’s cities are expanding beyond their cores, leading to longer commutes and rising vehicular dependency. With 60% of India expected to become urbanized by the 2060s, mobility needs are outpacing infrastructure growth.
2. Inadequate Public Transport Penetration: Only 37% of urban residents have access to public transport (Economic Survey 2023), compared to 50%+ in Brazil and China. India needs 2 lakh urban buses, but only 35,000 are operational, highlighting a glaring deficit.

Current Planning: A Mixed Bag

1. Metro Systems – High Impact but High Cost: Over ₹3 lakh crore has been invested in urban metros, but cost recovery remains poor due to low ridership and high operation costs. Fares remain a sensitive issue, with even marginal hikes leading to reduced footfalls.  Last-mile connectivity is still underdeveloped, impacting commuter convenience.
2. Bus-Based Transit and e-Mobility Push: Under PM e-Bus Sewa and PM e-Drive, 14,000 new e-buses and over 1 lakh e-rickshaws are being added. However, e-buses have 82% life cycle losses over 70 years due to high battery and maintenance costs. Private investment remains low due to weak returns and uncertain operating models.
3. Ignored Alternatives: Trams and Trolleybuses: Trams show 45% long-term profitability, better life-cycle performance, and lower emissions, yet are neglected in policy.  Kochi’s planned tram introduction may become a model for integrating sustainability and cost-efficiency.

Impact on Livability and Social Equity

1. Sustainability Dimension: Transport contributes 10% of India’s GHG emissions (MoEFCC 2023). Clean modes like electric trams, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian pathways are critical for sustainable cities. Focus on e-mobility and low-emission fuels aligns with India’s net-zero commitment by 2070.
2. Social Equity and Affordability: Marginalized groups depend on affordable public transport. Fare hikes and underdeveloped bus systems disproportionately affect the urban poor. High capital-intensive projects often neglect low-income neighborhoods, worsening urban inequality.
3. Livability Indicators: The Ease of Living Index 2020 ranks cities based on mobility, air quality, and public transport. Cities like Bengaluru and Delhi lag despite heavy investments, due to poor integration and traffic congestion. Livability improves when transit planning considers affordability, accessibility, and environmental health.

Conclusion

A diversified mobility model—balancing metros, trams, buses, and NMT (non-motorised transport)—is vital. Ensuring financial sustainability and social equity in transport will define India’s urban future and the success of Viksit Bharat by 2047.