The future of India’s transport sector is being redefined by a holistic roadmap focused on sustainability, technology, and economic efficiency. A key pillar of this transformative vision is the massive upgrade of 25,000 kilometres of two-lane national highways into four-lane corridors designed for electromobility. This initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes futuristic projects like electric rapid transport, hyperloop systems, and ropeways for inaccessible regions, all aimed at drastically reducing the nation’s carbon footprint and enhancing logistical efficiency. The ambitious goal is to build 100 kilometres of new roads per day, a target that, if met, will solidify India’s position as a global leader in infrastructure development.
This strategic push is underpinned by a strong environmental agenda. The national highway network has already expanded by 60 per cent since 2013-14, now stretching to an impressive 1.46 lakh kilometres. The focus, however, is not just on expansion but on greening these corridors. Plans are in the pipeline to plant up to 25 crore trees along highways, with a “tree bank” proposal to ensure that for every tree felled, five new ones are planted. This green initiative will not only help sequester carbon but also create a more resilient and eco-friendly road network, crucial for the nation’s long-term environmental goals.
Technological innovation is at the heart of this revolution. Pilot projects are underway to test high-speed, 135-seater electric buses equipped with airline-grade amenities, with trials set for major intercity routes like Delhi-Jaipur and Mumbai-Pune. These electric buses, which are 30 per cent cheaper to operate than their diesel counterparts, signal a definitive move towards a zero-net carbon public transport system. Furthermore, the push for flex-fuel vehicles, with 11 major automakers committing to their development, is set to reduce India’s reliance on fossil fuel imports, a move that enhances energy security and cuts down on air pollution.
The economic implications of this transport revolution are profound. India’s logistics costs currently stand at 14 per cent of its GDP, a figure that is significantly higher than global benchmarks. The government aims to slash this to a more competitive 9 per cent through improved connectivity and efficient transport systems. This reduction will not only boost the competitiveness of Indian businesses on the global stage but also directly benefit consumers through lower costs. The transport sector’s current contribution of nearly 40 per cent to India’s air pollution makes these green mobility initiatives vital for public health and creating healthier, more equitable cities.
With strong investor interest and a clear roadmap, the transformation is well underway. The confluence of advanced technology, sustainable practices, and a business-friendly policy environment is setting the stage for an infrastructure overhaul that is poised to place Indian roads on par with global standards, paving the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and prosperous future.
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India To Upgrade 25000 Km Highways Into Four-Lane Green Mobility Corridors