PR No – 27
19th January, 2024
New Delhi
PHDCCI UNIQUE URBAN IDENTITY DRIVE
CONFERENCE ON SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY: KEY FOR FUTURE CITIES
“Goal of the Delhi government is to enhance public transport, clean mobility solutions and to decarbonize the private vehicle space in Delhi” says Shri Ashish Kundra, (IAS), Principal Secretary-cum-Commissioner, Transport Department, Government of Delhi.
The PHDCCI Housing and Urban Development Committee under it Unique Urban Identity Drive organized a Conference on Sustainable Urban Mobility- Key for Future Cities on 18th January 2024 at PHD House New Delhi.
While addressing at the Conference the Guest of Honor, Shri Ashish Kundra (IAS), Principal Secretary-cum-Commissioner, Transport Department, Government of Delhi shared strategic insights into addressing the complex urban challenges that faced Delhi while planning for its development. He emphasized that the Delhi government is committed to a substantial shift toward sustainable practices and have signed contracts for 6000 electric buses, with a focus on smaller buses connecting key locations. He mentioned about the Aggregator scheme for buses to invite private players into the market, fostering competition and encouraging a transition from private to public transport. Shri Kundra also stressed on decarbonizing the private vehicle space and make a shift towards EV. While concluding he said that he is very optimistic on the future of Delhi and asked the private sector to also adopt policies which contributes towards urban mobility.
Special Guest at the Conference Prof. PSN Rao, Dean (Planning & Development), School of Planning and Architecture & Co-Convener, High Level Committee on Urban Planning, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Govt. of India mentioned that transportation stood out as a pivotal aspect in city planning. He underscored the importance of fostering walkability in cities, a goal contingent on the development of robust road infrastructure. He highlighted a contrast with European cities, noting the absence of “Complete Streets” in Indian urban landscapes. He argued that streets should encompass features such as proper lighting, sidewalks, and waste disposal systems, emphasizing a shift away from a sole focus on vehicular traffic. He concluded by emphasizing the necessity of constructing streets that facilitate comfortable pedestrian movement alongside vehicular traffic.
In his welcome remarks Shri Amit Goyal, Chair, PHDCCI Housing and Urban Development Committee, emphasized the urgency of effective urban management to tackle the challenges posed by rising population and pollution in our cities. He advocated for eco-friendly transportation modes to counter the environmental impact of urbanization. Emphasizing the adoption of best practices from global cities, Shri Goyal highlighted the value of learning from successful models to enhance urban planning. The report on sustainable urban mobility in cities like Delhi reinforced the need for urgent efforts, including electric vehicles, bicycles, and electric buses, to address environmental concerns such as alarming Air Quality Index levels.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. Jatinder Singh, Assistant Secretary General, PHDCCI, expressing his sincere gratitude to all the speakers, sponsors, and delegates for their valuable contributions and participation.
The summit featured an exceptional line-up of distinguished speakers who made a significant impact with their actionable insights. The event was supported by Anant Raj Limited and India Sotheby’s.
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Warm Regards,
Media Division
PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry