New Delhi, Jan 24 : A comprehensive discussion on providing free public transport for elderly women, students, and economically weaker sections, while improving the infrastructure to ease traffic congestion and reduce environmental pollution, was held at the Press Club of India. The event, organized by Greenpeace India and the Public Transport Forum, saw active participation from members who shared their insights and suggestions.
Greenpeace India campaigner Aqib Farooq highlighted the need for a shift away from private vehicles toward public transport, such as metro trains and buses, to significantly reduce traffic congestion. He emphasized that this change could lead to a substantial reduction in air pollution, thereby improving the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Challenges in Public Transport
Farooq pointed out the inadequacies in India’s public transport system, which force people to rely on private vehicles, exacerbating traffic and pollution. The forum proposed submitting a formal recommendation to the government, advocating for free public transport for students, women, and senior citizens, alongside improvements to its overall quality and reliability.
Learning from Global Practices
Drawing parallels with other countries, Farooq noted that better public transport systems abroad encourage people to choose buses and trains over private vehicles, resulting in improved air quality. In contrast, many Indian households own multiple vehicles, putting additional pressure on roads and worsening environmental conditions.
Funding and Collaboration
The forum stressed that improving public transport would require significant investment and collaborative efforts from the central government, state governments, and municipal bodies. A robust system could reduce road congestion, cut emissions, and provide a sustainable alternative for commuters.
Vision for Free Public Transport
The NGO urged the government to make public transport completely free for senior citizens, women, students, and the underprivileged, ensuring ease of travel without financial strain. Addressing the challenge of funding, they proposed a shared financial model involving contributions from various government bodies.
The recommendations are set to be submitted to the government in anticipation of discussions during the upcoming budget. The campaign aspires to make public transport more accessible and environmentally friendly, ensuring a significant positive impact on society and the ecosystem.
