Role of Shared Mobility to Build Sustainable India

With COP29 just around the corner, global leaders are once again preparing to gather and focus on carbon emission reduction, a topic that has firmly taken the centre stage in global policy discussions. While current policies may help India achieve its emissions targets by 2030, projections from a paper published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggest a rebound in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2031, which could continue rising until 2040. This highlights an urgent need for innovative strategies to mitigate emissions now and in the future.

While technological advancements like electric vehicles and renewable energy sources are vital for achieving sustainability goals, we must also recognize the significant impact of non-technological interventions which includes a more awareness and encouragement towards shared mobility. In India, where the road transport sector accounts for over 92% of total transport emissions according to a report by the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW), shared mobility can play a transformative role. By encouraging individuals to utilize public transportation, carpooling, and other shared mobility options, we can dramatically decrease the number of vehicles on the road. Hence, this reduction will help to lower the percentage of greenhouse gas and can enhance air quality.

Impact of Shared Mobility on Carbon Emissions
According to IEA, road transport currently accounts for 12% of India’s energy-related CO2 emissions and significantly contributes to urban air pollution. As the nation strives to meet the growing demand for private mobility and the transportation of goods, energy consumption and CO2 emissions from road transport could potentially double by 2050 if no effective measures are implemented. IEA also suggests that through coordinated urban planning and a shift towards combined mobility, emissions can be reduced by 34%, resulting in a 10% decrease in total urban emissions. Increasing public awareness of shared mobility can significantly contribute to decarbonization efforts.

From a cost perspective, shared mobility presents a financially effective alternative to private car ownership and usage. By utilizing shared transport options, individuals can save significantly on expenses related to fuel, maintenance, parking, and insurance. Moreover, reduced vehicle dependency leads to fewer cars on the road, resulting in lower overall carbon emissions. This not only contributes to a cleaner environment but also improves public health by enhancing air quality. Cleaner air reduces the incidence of respiratory issues and other health problems associated with pollution, leading to a healthier population. Consequently, the combined financial savings and health benefits of shared mobility create a compelling case for its adoption as a sustainable transportation solution.

Future of shared mobility in India
Looking ahead, the future of shared mobility in India is filled with immense potential, propelled by continuous technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and evolving urban mobility trends. Shared mobility has the capacity to reach beyond urban centres and make significant inroads into rural and semi-urban regions, effectively tackling the persistent issues of accessibility and connectivity in India’s hinterlands. By harnessing digital technologies, adopting innovative business models, and forming strategic partnerships, shared mobility providers can connect urban and rural areas, offering communities access to affordable, reliable, and efficient transportation services.

Navigating challenges for increased adoption
Many challenges faced by cities and towns today stem from an overdependence on cars. To address this issue, shared mobility services and public transportation can provide viable alternatives. In intercity travel, for example, individuals often rely on personal vehicles for journeys between nearby cities, when they could opt for intercity buses instead. Private companies are stepping up to promote shared mobility solutions, demonstrating how innovative approaches can effectively reduce reliance on personal cars. In India, this presents an opportunity for the private sector to develop and implement shared mobility options that foster a more sustainable transportation landscape.

Most of the private companies are using technological advancements such as real-time data analytics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to boost shared mobility operations, optimize their services and enhance user experiences. Innovations like dynamic pricing algorithms, predictive analytics, smart routing, and vehicle tracking systems are transforming all facets of shared mobility, from the booking process and navigation to fleet management and customer support. Additionally, the integration of emerging technologies, including blockchain, offers significant potential to improve security, transparency, and trust within shared mobility ecosystems, thereby fostering greater confidence among users and stakeholders alike.

Socio-economic barriers can hinder access to digital technology and quality infrastructure in rural areas, making it challenging for communities to benefit from shared mobility services. Many rural populations face limited internet connectivity, lack of digital literacy, and insufficient transportation infrastructure, which can exacerbate isolation and restrict mobility options. To navigate these challenges, government intervention and stronger policies are essential. Initiatives that enhance digital literacy, improve internet access, and invest in transportation infrastructure can empower rural communities to engage with shared mobility solutions.

Conclusion
As India moves toward sustainable development, shared mobility presents a promising solution for creating cleaner, greener, and more inclusive cities for future generations. The mobility landscape is evolving rapidly, and in the coming years, we can expect significant innovations alongside considerable challenges as well. For policymakers, the primary focus will be on developing efficient green cities with lesser congestion and understanding how shared mobility can contribute to that goal. By investing wisely, embracing new ideas, and collaborating with various partners, India can harness the full potential of shared mobility. Meanwhile, everyday citizens will continue to prioritize finding fast and convenient ways to travel, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and reliable transportation.
 

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