17th Urban Mobility India Conference Begins in Gandhinagar Today

Why in the news?

The Urban Mobility India Conference, inaugurated in Gandhinagar, brings policymakers and experts together to discuss and integrate solutions for efficient urban transport, recognizing cities for excellence in urban management.

17th Urban Mobility India Conference Begins in Gandhinagar Today

Highlights about the 17th Urban Mobility India Conference Begins in Gandhinagar:

  • The 17th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition is set to begin today at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar, inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
  • Organised by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the three-day event will host over 3,000 dignitaries, including policymakers and urban transport experts from Central and State Governments.

Focus on Urban Mobility Solutions:

  • Joint Secretary in the Ministry, Jaideep, highlighted the conference’s primary focus on standardising urban mobility solutions.
  • The event will explore the integration of various urban mobility modes, aiming to streamline transport efficiency and accessibility across cities.
  • Discussions are expected to address challenges and solutions in urban transportation, with insights from diverse stakeholders.

Concluding Session and Awards

  • Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar will preside over the concluding session.
  • Awards will be presented to cities in eight categories, recognizing excellence in urban management.
  • The conference intends to set a foundation for improved and innovative urban transport systems in India.

About the Urban Mobility Conference:

  • The theme for this year is “Mobility for All,” prioritising equitable access and inclusive urban transport.
  • Focuses on affordable, clean, safe, efficient, and accessible systems for all societal groups.
  • Emphasises the needs of specially-abled individuals, elderly, women, and children.
  • Supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for universal access by

Government Initiatives for Enhancing Urban Mobility:

National Urban Transport Policy

  • (NUTP): Aims to boost public transport share to 50% of motorised trips, focusing on efficient systems.
  • Key Initiatives: Programs like Make in India, FAME (for electric vehicles), Green Mobility Fund, Smart Cities, and high-speed mobility projects including high-speed trains and Hyperloop.
  • JNNURM: Provides funding for urban transport infrastructure projects.
  • New Transport Systems: Cities are adopting Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Metro, Light Rail Transit (LRT), and Monorail.
  • National Transport Master Plan: A ₹10 lakh crore plan to facilitate smooth multimodal passenger and freight movement.
  • Electric Vehicles (EV): Promotes EV adoption with plans for an all-electric car fleet by
  • Transit-Oriented Development (TOD):Enhances accessibility and encourages walking and public transport use over private vehicles.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times