Unlocking the Potential of Sustainable Public Transport Commute for a Sustainable Future

By Monalisha Thakur, CMO & Co-founder at Tummoc

June 5,2023: To create a greener planet, we need sustainable solutions that make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions. One such solution, especially in India, is public transport. As our cities grow and vehicle ownership increases, embracing public transport becomes essential. Let's explore five reasons why public transport is the way forward for a greener planet in India.

1. Less Traffic: Indian cities face severe traffic congestion, wasting time, and fuel, and polluting the air. Public transport, like buses and metro trains, can ease this burden by carrying many passengers at once. Public transport reduces the number of private vehicles on the roads, leading to smoother traffic flow, lower emissions, and a greener environment.

2. Mitigating Air Pollution: Air pollution poses a significant health risk in Indian cities. Private vehicles, especially older ones, contribute to harmful emissions. Public transport helps combat air pollution. Buses and trains often use cleaner technologies like compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric power, emitting fewer pollutants than conventional vehicles. Choosing public transport improves air quality, creating healthier and more livable cities.

3. Conserving Energy: Public transport is energy-efficient compared to private vehicles. Buses and trains transport more people using less energy per person. This efficiency reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Embracing public transport conserves energy resources, moving us towards a more sustainable future.

4. Enhancing Affordability and Accessibility: Owning a private vehicle can be expensive for many in India. Public transport provides an affordable alternative, enabling people from different backgrounds to commute conveniently. It also improves accessibility to areas with limited transportation options, ensuring equal access to essential services, education, and employment opportunities. Promoting public transport fosters a more inclusive society and reduces the environmental impact of transportation.

5. Promoting Smart and Sustainable Cities: India's rapid urbanisation necessitates smart and sustainable cities with efficient transportation systems. Public transport plays a crucial role in this transformation. By investing in well-planned infrastructure like bus rapid transit (BRT) and metro networks, cities can reduce their carbon footprint, improve mobility, and create vibrant urban spaces. Integrating public transport with cycling and walking options further encourages greener and healthier commuting.

Public transport holds tremendous potential in shaping a greener future for India and the world. By reducing traffic congestion, mitigating air pollution, conserving energy, enhancing affordability and accessibility, and promoting smart and sustainable cities, public transport emerges as a compelling solution for a greener planet. Collaboration among governments, urban planners, and individuals is vital in prioritizing public transport development and usage. Together, let's embrace public transport as a powerful tool to combat climate change, preserve our environment, and create a sustainable legacy for future generations.

Monlisha Thakur is a leading voice in the transit industry, She has been instrumental in driving the development and growth at Tummoc.