Transforming India's Transport: Gadkari's Vision for Sustainable Mobility

Innovative Plans for Public Transport
Nitin Gadkari has consistently shared his vision for enhancing public transport and highway infrastructure across India. In a recent discussion, he outlined ambitious plans for Mass Mobility, which will incorporate Electric Rapid Transport Hyperloop systems in urban settings, alongside Ropeways, Cable Buses, and Funicular Railways designed for challenging terrains.
A Major Overhaul of the Transport Sector
Gadkari emphasized that India's transport sector is on the brink of significant transformation. To support sustainable development, initiatives such as a Tree Bank, mobile-based driving tests, and the introduction of Flex Fuel Engines by eleven major automakers are being planned. The extensive strategy also aims to upgrade 25,000 kilometers of two-lane highways to four lanes, establish an electric rapid control network on key routes, and enhance road construction efforts.
Advancements in Urban Transport
The government's focus extends beyond urban centers, with plans to develop hilly regions using Funicular Railways, which merge elevator and railway technologies for efficient transport on inclines.
Hyperloop and Metrino Pod Taxis
Gadkari noted that the costs for these projects could range from ₹200 crore to ₹5,000 crore, and their completion is expected to significantly transform India's landscape. Improved road infrastructure is anticipated to stimulate economic growth. The plans also include the development of Metrino Pod Taxis, Hyperloop systems, and pillar-based mass rapid transport solutions for cities like Delhi and Bangalore.
Collaboration with Major Automakers
He revealed that companies such as Tata, Toyota, Hyundai, and Mahindra are collaborating to produce flex fuel engine vehicles, which will help decrease reliance on fuel imports and fossil fuels. Additionally, efforts are underway to upgrade 25,000 kilometers of roads from two lanes to four lanes.
Safety and Technology in Road Development
To ensure timely execution of these advancements while prioritizing safety, new technologies like Pre-cast Construction, three-foot road barriers, and AI-based road safety tools, including drones and camera monitoring systems, will be implemented.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
To prevent environmental degradation from rapid development, discussions for a Tree Bank are progressing with the Ministry of Environment. Gadkari also announced a pilot project for a 135-seater electric bus in Nagpur, aimed at promoting sustainable public transport. He highlighted that the transport sector contributes nearly 40% to India's air pollution and stressed that green mobility initiatives will not only reduce emissions but also lower the country's annual fuel import bill, which stands at around ₹22 lakh. Improved logistics are expected to decrease logistics costs as well.