Mumbai’s urban landscape is undergoing a notable shift in transportation preferences, with a dramatic increase in private vehicle ownership overshadowing the decline in public transport ridership. Over the past 15 years, the number of private cars in the city has surged nearly threefold, while daily ridership on public transport systems has steadily decreased.
A public policy analyst attributes this trend to several key factors. Chief among them is the stagnation in expanding and modernising Mumbai’s rail and bus networks. The existing infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the city’s growing population, leading to severe overcrowding and a consequent decline in public transport usage. Urban planning has not adequately integrated public transportation with new developments, further exacerbating the reliance on private vehicles. This trend is mirrored by increased car ownership, driven by rising income levels among the 25-30 age group and a decrease in car prices due to enhanced fuel efficiency. The availability of affordable car loans with lower interest rates has also contributed to this shift. A car marketing executive highlights that double-income families are increasingly favouring private vehicles for daily commutes and family travel.
The rise in scooter and motorcycle ownership among the youth is another factor. Low equated monthly instalments (EMIs) and the convenience of navigating traffic jams make two-wheelers an attractive option. Enhanced road infrastructure, including developments such as the Eastern Freeway, SCLR, and the Bandra connector, has further incentivised private vehicle use by reducing travel times. Transport experts argue that the government missed an opportunity to counterbalance this shift by failing to introduce dedicated bus lanes and additional air-conditioned (AC) buses. Recommendations include increasing the number of BEST buses from the current 3,200 to over 6,000 and implementing dedicated bus lanes on major routes to improve service frequency. This could potentially reduce the appeal of private vehicles.
Moreover, issues such as delays in electric bus deliveries have prompted calls for investment in AC CNG buses. Such an investment could boost ridership significantly and encourage a shift towards public transportation. The introduction of Metro lines 2A and 7 has further influenced transit habits, with many commuters opting for the Metro over traditional trains. However, the continuation of work-from-home policies by some firms has also contributed to reduced public transport usage. In the realm of auto-rickshaws, while there has been a rise in the number of vehicles, competition among drivers has increased, leading to longer wait times and a notable shift in ridership patterns.
The decline in public transport usage in Mumbai poses a significant challenge that requires urgent attention from policymakers. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring sustainable urban mobility and reducing congestion and pollution in the city. Mumbai stands at a crossroads in its transport evolution, with the balance between private and public transportation critical to its future growth and livability.
