As urban populations swell and environmental concerns intensify, the quest for sustainable and affordable transportation solutions has become paramount. Globally, the transportation sector accounts for approximately 16% of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), underscoring the need for greener mobility options. In India, the government’s commitment to sustainable transport is evident through initiatives promoting electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels.

For instance, the National Hydrogen Energy Roadmap aims to harness hydrogen as a carbon-neutral fuel, with projects underway to produce green hydrogen by 2026.

EVs are also central to India’s strategy to promote affordable green mobility. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme offers incentives to reduce EV costs, making them more accessible to the public. However, challenges such as limited charging infrastructure across the country and high upfront costs persist. To address these, investments are being made to expand the charging network, and subsidies are provided to lower the financial barriers for consumers.

Globally, cities are adopting micromobility solutions like shared scooters and bikes to reduce reliance on personal vehicles for short trips. In North America, micromobility in 2022 offset around 74 million pounds of CO₂ emissions. Indian cities are following suit, integrating bike-sharing programs and enhancing pedestrian infrastructure to promote non-motorized transport.

Public transportation, globally, remains a cornerstone of sustainable mobility. Efforts to electrify bus fleets and improve service quality are underway to make public transit a more attractive option. For example, the Delhi government has introduced electric buses to its public transport fleet to reduce urban air pollution and provide efficient transit options. This push is part of broader efforts to improve the liveability of Indian cities.

The global shift towards sustainable transport is further exemplified by the development of high-speed rail systems, offering low-emission alternatives to short-distance flights. While countries like Japan have long benefited from such infrastructure, India is progressing with its high-speed rail projects, such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor, to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times.

Achieving affordable green mobility requires a multifaceted approach, including policy support, infrastructure development, and public awareness. India’s initiatives, aligned with global trends, reflect a commitment to meeting sustainable transportation needs balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship for the future.