Chandigarh/Gurugram: Union Minister for Housing, Urban Development, and Energy, Manohar Lal Khattar, on Sunday provided key insights into the future of urban transport at the 18th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference & Expo in Gurugram. The minister announced plans for luxury seating in metro trains and the introduction of a single National Mobility Card that will be usable across metro, bus, and other public transport systems to simplify commuter convenience.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Minister Khattar emphasized that the metro network will be expanded in congested urban areas to reduce traffic jams. He noted that under the revised metro licensing framework, operators will no longer need a separate license for last-mile connectivity, as it will now be integrated within the primary metro service license.
Focus on Delhi’s Parking and Urban Challenges
Highlighting challenges in major cities like Delhi, Manohar Lal stressed the need for better parking solutions and last-mile connectivity. He assured delegates that suggestions and ideas raised during the conference would be implemented at the ministry level to ensure practical outcomes.
Awards and Initiatives
During the ceremony, the minister presented the “Metro Rail with the Best Multi-Modal Integration” award to Chennai Metro Rail Limited, and the “Metro Rail with the Best Passenger Service” award to Delhi Metro Rail Corporation. Additionally, he launched the PM E-Bus Service logo and official website, further reinforcing the push towards eco-friendly urban transport. The next, 19th Urban Mobility India Conference will be hosted in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Electric Mobility and Energy Readiness
Minister Khattar emphasized the significance of electric mobility and last-mile connectivity. He stated that India has no shortage of electricity, rather a surplus, ensuring sufficient power for EV charging infrastructure. He encouraged adopting advanced charging technologies like superchargers to reduce charging time and stressed that planning for India’s urban population growth by 2047 requires early, innovative interventions.
Conclusion
The conference underscored the need to translate discussion into action, improve urban transport, enhance commuter convenience, and integrate sustainable and technologically advanced solutions across India’s cities.
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