India’s transport sector has become a significant contributor to the country’s carbon footprint, accounting for around 13-15% of total carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. With the country’s economic growth, increasing urbanization, and rising private vehicle ownership, emissions from the transport sector are expected to rise in the coming years. By 2050, India’s energy consumption and CO2 emissions from road transport could potentially double.
To meet global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement’s target to limit warming to 1.5°C, India is exploring strategies to steer the sector toward carbon neutrality. One major initiative is the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs), which could play a key role in reducing CO2 emissions. While the adoption of EVs has been rising, the carbon intensity of India’s power sector, which still relies heavily on coal, presents a challenge. Nevertheless, by 2030, EVs are projected to prevent around 5 million tons of CO2 emissions, with the potential to save up to 380 million tons by 2050, depending on the scale of adoption and the pace of clean energy integration.
EV sales in India have shown progress, with the share of electric vehicles among new vehicle sales rising from 1.8% in 2021 to over 4% in 2022. However, there is still a significant gap in adoption between vehicle types, with electric three-wheelers leading, while electric cars remain limited to less than 1% of new sales. High initial costs remain a barrier, although subsidies, tax rebates, and reduced registration fees may help accelerate adoption.
Another essential element of India’s sustainability efforts is the expansion of charging infrastructure, including in rural areas and on highways. The government is also exploring the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, into the grid to support EV charging and reduce the sector’s overall emissions. In addition to EV adoption, improving fuel efficiency and promoting the use of biofuels and compressed natural gas (CNG) in public and commercial transport could further reduce emissions.
India is also focusing on enhancing public transport to alleviate reliance on private vehicles. Modernizing bus rapid transit (BRT) systems and expanding metro and rail networks are among the priorities. Electrifying rail networks is particularly important, as electric trains are more energy-efficient and produce fewer emissions compared to diesel locomotives. Additionally, shifting freight from road to rail could significantly reduce emissions, as trucks, which account for a small percentage of India’s vehicles, contribute disproportionately to transport-related CO2 emissions.
Efforts to improve freight logistics through better route planning and the integration of technology can optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions in the sector. Other sustainable transportation options, such as walking and cycling, are also being encouraged through the development of dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure in urban areas.
Urban planning initiatives, such as transport-oriented development, aim to reduce travel distances and promote mixed-use developments that encourage walking or cycling. In cities, congestion pricing and stricter parking enforcement may further discourage car use and encourage public transport adoption.
While these efforts are promising, achieving significant reductions in transport-related emissions will require continued investment, policy changes, and a shift in consumer behavior. Public awareness campaigns and incentives to encourage the adoption of sustainable transport solutions are essential for fostering long-term change in the sector.
India’s transport sector faces numerous challenges, but with concerted efforts from both public and private sectors, the country is working toward a more sustainable, efficient, and low-emission transport future.
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