Smart mobility

Indian cities are evolving rapidly with the changing requirements of the country’s increasing populace. Increasing urbanisation is posing immense pressure on the existing infrastructure and is compelling policymakers to take note of major issues related to inadequate and inefficient public transport services and related infrastructure, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and lack of technological interventions to promote service delivery to end users.

With the aim of addressing these challenges, the Government of India is focusing on the development of urban as well as rural infrastructure, providing much-required impetus to the manufacturing sector and promoting trade policies and reforms to attract foreign direct investments (FDIs).

The digital revolution has revamped the entire concept of mobility. Simply tapping an icon on one’s mobile screen gets one places. Similar changes are visible in many other forms—for instance, intelligent streets, smart mobility services such as public transport ticket booking, fare collection, parking, and a focus among automakers on next generation vehicles.

Last mile connectivity is one of the biggest challenges faced by Indian cities today. Not all destinations can be connected via public transport; therefore, modes like electric rickshaws, cycles and public bike-sharing schemes merit consideration.

Analysis of the 60 cities selected under the Smart Cities Mission indicates that mobility has been one of the top sectors for investment.