NEW DELHI: Greenpeace India and the Public Transport Forum have released a citizen’s draft policy for affordable public transport, proposing major reforms to address India’s urban mobility challenges.
The draft, developed through consultations with experts and citizens, recommends universal fare-free transport through “climate tickets,” increased investment in public transport infrastructure, and greater inclusivity in workforce policies. It identifies key issues, including inadequate bus services, underfunding, and an overemphasis on road expansion.
The policy calls for reallocating road infrastructure funds to public transport, doubling city bus fleets, modernising depots, and improving first- and last-mile connectivity. It also suggests abolishing taxes on public transport and using savings to enhance services.
To meet climate goals, it advocates using domestic and international climate funds for efficiency and emission reductions. “This budget is a chance to make public transport accessible, affordable, and efficient,” said Aakiz Farooq, a Greenpeace India campaigner.
“Accessible transport fosters equity for women, the elderly, children, and marginalised groups.” The draft proposes creating a state-level public transport fund, funded by central, state, and municipal governments, and recognises public transport jobs as green jobs.
It also stresses citizen participation in planning and governance. “There is no unified policy on free public transport across states. Our draft offers a flexible framework for consistent implementation,” said Nishant, coordinator of the Public Transport Forum.
The initiative seeks to address the lack of clear policies for affordable mobility, aiming to make public transport inclusive, efficient, and eco-friendly.
Greenpeace India and the Public Transport Forum call for collaborative efforts among governments and stakeholders to achieve these goals.
Key points of the draft policy
Fare-free public transport through ‘climate tickets’
Shift investments from road, metro, and fossil fuel subsidies to expanding and improving public transport systems
Double bus fleets in cities, create dedicated bus lanes, modernise bus depots, improve bus stops with accessible amenities, and enhance first/last-mile connectivity.
Ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and gender inclusivity in the workforce. Recognise public transport jobs as green jobs
Create dedicated funding mechanisms through central, state, and municipal contributions. Abolish taxes on public transport to reduce operational costs