Why is active mobility necessary in India?, Pg 8

Key Highlights

Definition of Active Mobility

• Refers to non-motorised transport: walking, cycling, skateboarding, etc.

• Aimed at promoting healthier, eco-friendly, low-cost urban transport.

Need in Indian Context

• Accidental deaths of pedestrians, cyclists, and street hawkers rising in metro cities.

• 85% of roads (2021) don’t meet the minimum standard for pedestrian or cycling use.

Policy Initiatives

• Supported under:

  • National Transit Oriented Development (NTOD) Policy

  • Smart Cities Mission

  • Karnataka Active Mobility Bill, 2022

• Pune: Comprehensive Bicycle Plan

• Chennai, Delhi, Kochi: active mobility lanes, PBS systems

Barriers to Implementation

• Urban infrastructure disincentivises walking/cycling (narrow footpaths, poor signage).

• Social perception: cycling is stigmatized; cars = status.

• Weather, long commutes, and road safety also deter adoption.

Benefits of Active Mobility

• Health: Reduces obesity, respiratory illness, cardiac risk

• Environment: Reduces up to 12% of carbon emissions

• Economic: Cuts transport costs, boosts local economies

• Urban planning: Promotes safe, compact, livable cities

Global Examples

• Netherlands: 35,000 km of cycling lanes, climate-friendly transport

• Germany’s Berlin Mobility Act: dedicated cycling corridors, slower vehicle speed zones

• European Union’s Vision Zero: pedestrian prioritisation

Analysis & Way Forward

• India must integrate active mobility with transport planning, reframe urban space for safety, and invest in inclusive infrastructure.

• Public awareness, incentives, and infrastructure redesign are crucial.

Mains Mock Question:

"Discuss the importance of active mobility in sustainable urban development. Highlight the barriers and suggest strategies for mainstreaming non-motorised transport in Indian cities."