Public transport needs to stay at the center of how cities grow: Hiranmay Mallick of Tummoc
Fast forward 2025: Smarter systems, greener vehicles, and better accessibility can make public transport a choice for everyone.
Public transport is one of the most effective tools we have to make cities cleaner and more sustainable. With cities growing fast, how we get around needs to change. Buses, metros, and trains aren’t just about reducing traffic—they help lower emissions, improve air quality, and make cities better places to live.
Choosing public transport over private vehicles has a big impact. For example, one full bus can replace around 50 cars on the road, cutting fuel use and pollution. Cities like Bengaluru and Delhi have already linked their metro and bus networks, making it easier for people to leave their cars behind. But having better infrastructure isn’t enough. People need simple, affordable, and reliable systems to make the switch.
Technology is helping bridge this gap. Mobility apps are already making it easier to plan trips, check bus and metro timings, and even connect with ride-sharing options for the last leg of the journey. When these tools are easy to use, more people are likely to choose public transport. It has become a real alternative to driving a private car.
New technologies are also changing how public transport operates. Electric buses and hydrogen-powered trains are becoming more common. They produce less pollution and help countries meet their climate goals. These cleaner transit options show that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand.
Even with this progress, there are still challenges. Many people hesitate to use public transport because they don’t think it’s safe or reliable. For others, it might not even be accessible. And let’s not forget the cultural aspect—many still see private cars as symbols of status and success. Fixing these issues will need effort from governments, private companies, and communities working together.
Funding is another big challenge. Building and maintaining public transport systems is expensive. Without proper investment, even the best ideas won’t succeed. Partnerships between governments and private companies can help share the costs and ensure systems stay efficient.
Public transport isn’t just about getting people from one place to another. It shapes how cities work and helps create a future that’s more sustainable and inclusive. Every time someone chooses a bus, metro, or train instead of a car, it reduces traffic, cuts emissions, and helps make the city a better place to live.
As we move toward 2025, public transport needs to stay at the center of how cities grow. Smarter systems, greener vehicles, and better accessibility can make public transport a choice for everyone. The road to sustainability isn’t always easy, but public transport can take us there—faster, cleaner, and more efficiently.