Electrifying India’s Transit: Nitin Gadkari’s Vision for Sustainable Mobility
In the quest for advanced electric vehicle (EV) technology suitable for large-scale adoption within India, Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, emphasized the nation’s pursuit of cost-effective solutions that can be domestically manufactured. Speaking to a US audience, Gadkari highlighted the ministry’s interest in exploring various modes of transportation, including ropeways, as alternatives for challenging terrains and congested urban areas.
Expressing a keen interest in the technology of light rail transport, Gadkari noted the involvement of US companies in discussions surrounding innovative transportation solutions. These conversations are part of the broader initiative, ‘Rebuilding Infrastructure for India 2.0’, under the auspices of the ‘Reimagining India 2.0 series’, launched by the Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) as part of India-at-75 ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.
Gadkari underscored India’s focus on developing indigenous technologies for mass rapid transit powered by electricity. He outlined plans for ropeway projects aimed at enhancing connectivity in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Sikkim. Additionally, initiatives to improve port connectivity and facilitate efficient trade routes are underway, with several projects in progress across the country.
Highlighting strategic endeavors, Gadkari mentioned the establishment of emergency landing facilities for fighter planes along national highways, emphasizing their significance from a defense standpoint. He extended an invitation to US companies to invest in India, citing opportunities for collaboration in research and development, particularly in the EV sector and related infrastructure.
With a focus on sustainable practices, Gadkari emphasized the government’s encouragement of solar energy and advancements in electric mobility, including the development of battery-swapping policies and standards. He urged technocrats to engage in joint ventures to harness the potential of advanced technologies in construction, alternative energy, and agricultural practices.
In response to inquiries about India’s road infrastructure, Gadkari expressed confidence in achieving parity with the USA by the end of 2024, underlining the nation’s commitment to transformative development.