Rethinking Urban Planning: Integrating E2W Into Sustainable Transport Systems
Urban planning plays a crucial role in shaping sustainable transportation systems as cities grapple with the challenges of population growth, congestion, and environmental concerns. The demand for efficient urban mobility in India is witnessing a significant trend as people from Tier 3 & 4 towns increasingly migrate to Tier 1 & 2 cities in search of better work, study, and business opportunities.
As per a detailed study by Niti Ayog, India has already cemented its position as the second-largest urban community globally and projections indicate that by the year 2050, an additional 416 million individuals will join its bustling cities. This unprecedented urban growth is set to elevate the urban share of India's population to an impressive 50 per cent.
The ever-growing demand for efficient mobility, coupled with pressing concerns regarding climate change, pollution, and energy consumption, has reinforced the urgency for innovative and sustainable transportation options at both local and global levels. Among the solutions offered to cater to the demand, one that has garnered considerable attention is the integration of electric two-wheelers, including e-bikes and e-scooters into urban transport systems. This forward-thinking approach holds great promise in revolutionising urban mobility and promoting sustainable transportation alternatives.
India stands out as one of the world's most rapidly expanding markets for Electric Two-Wheelers (E2Ws). Within the Indian automobile market, the two-wheeler segment holds sway, representing over 70 per cent of all registered vehicles. E2Ws have emerged as a highly convenient and efficient mode of transportation, particularly for short-distance travel, making them exceptionally well-suited for urban areas. Notably, over 50 per cent of all petrol transactions in India are attributed to the two-wheeler segment. These statistics underscore the magnitude of urbanisation in the country and emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning and sustainable development strategies to ensure the well-being and prosperity of its burgeoning urban population.
Advantages of Electric Two-Wheelers in Urban Planning
Enhancing Mobility and Accessibility: Two-wheelers are not only utilised for personal commuting but also find extensive use in various commercial applications. They play a vital role in logistics fleets for transporting food, groceries, parcels, and courier services. The versatility of two-wheelers has prompted testing for first and last-mile connectivity through shared trips and bike taxi services, effectively navigating through traffic congestion. They also help bridge the gap between transit stations and final destinations, solving the "last-mile problem" and improving overall connectivity in urban areas of India.
Promoting Sustainable Infrastructure: Integrating electric two-wheelers into sustainable transport systems requires the development of appropriate infrastructure. This includes charging stations, dedicated parking areas, and safe cycling infrastructure. Creating bicycle lanes and implementing bike-sharing programs can encourage the use of electric two-wheelers, ensuring a safe and efficient environment for riders. Projections from a comprehensive study suggest that electric two-wheeler sales in India may surpass a remarkable 80 per cent penetration by 2030. This anticipated surge reflects the significant potential for electric two-wheelers to dominate the market and underscores the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in the country.
Reducing Emissions and Improving Air Quality: Transportation in cities contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Electric two-wheelers, like e-bikes and electric scooters, offer a cleaner option compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. They produce no tailpipe emissions, helping to reduce air pollution and improve air quality, which directly affects public health. By promoting the use of electric two-wheelers, urban planners can make progress in reducing emissions and creating healthier living environments for people in India.
Strategies for Implementation
Several strategies can be employed to effectively implement the integration of electric two-wheelers into sustainable transport systems. Urban planners should prioritise infrastructure planning by identifying areas with high demand, such as densely populated neighbourhoods and commercial districts, and focus on developing dedicated lanes, secure parking areas, and charging infrastructure in those locations. Integrating e-bike and e-scooter sharing systems with existing public transit networks is necessary to facilitate easy mode-switching for commuters. Awareness campaigns, education programs, and partnerships with community organisations can help promote the benefits and safe usage of electric two-wheelers. Lastly, collaborative partnerships between city authorities, transportation agencies, private companies, and community stakeholders play a significant role.
Conclusion
In light of India's expanding urban population, it has become imperative to revolutionise conventional urban planning approaches and adopt forward-thinking solutions. The integration of electric two-wheelers into sustainable transport systems presents a highly promising avenue to tackle pressing challenges such as emissions reduction, air quality improvement, and enhanced urban mobility.
Embracing the widespread use of electric two-wheelers not only represents a pragmatic stride towards sustainable transportation but also signifies a significant stride towards safeguarding the health and well-being of urban dwellers. The time has come to reshape our cities holistically which will be aimed at employing a comprehensive approach that prioritises sustainable urban mobility as a central tenet.
The article has been authored by Jeetender Sharma, MD & Founder of Okinawa Autotech.
