7. Role of Nonmotorized Transport and Sustainable Transport in Indian Cities

A large number of trips are made by nonmotorized transport in Indian cites. However, majority of the users of nonmotorized transport are captive users, people who do not have any other choice of travel mode. The current state of infrastructure for nonmotorized transport is very poor, and city governments have paid very little attention to investment in developing appropriate infrastructure for nonmotorized transport. Therefore, with the increase in income and access to other motorized modes, these users will move to other modes of transport such as motorized two-wheelers or cars or bus. Improvement in NMT infrastructure can benefit current NMT users by reducing risk from other motorized vehicles. Improved NMT infrastructure is also expected to attract short trips from motorized two-wheelers and bus resulting in lower vehicular emissions. Increase use of NMT results in health benefits by increasing opportunities for active transport. Overall NMT-friendly infrastructure and policies can play a very important role in achieving sustainable transport – providing safe and clean mobility to all city residents.