Hit-and-run law: Truckers end protest after Centre says decision after talks
The All-India Motor transport Congress called off the agitation and urged truckers protesting against the new hit-and-run law to resume work. The development came after the truckers' body's key meeting with the government on the matter. Key Points
India TodayCarpooling banned in Bengaluru, penalty up to Rs 10,000. Know more
The transport department in Bengaluru has banned carpooling services offered through mobile apps like Quick Ride, following complaints from taxi drivers. Offenders could have their registration certificates suspended for up to six months and be fined between INR 5,000 to INR 10,000. Carpooling apps are accused of violating regulations by aggregating private cars that are not authorized for commercial use. While carpooling is seen as an effective solution for reducing congestion, the government has yet to establish a clear policy regarding these services. Key Points
Economic TimesUP govt planning to establish waterways on eight rivers for goods, public transport
The move is in line with the BJP-led Centre's Maritime India Vision 2030 that envisages increasing the share of inland water transport to five per cent by 2030. Work on achieving the target has already started. The Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government aims to provide the plan with a shot in the arm, the officials said. Key Points
Economic TimesAll women can travel for free in govt buses, decision in Thursday’s cabinet meeting: Karnataka minister
Free bus travel for women was one of the promises of the Congress in its Assembly election manifesto. transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said a detailed report on the scheme would be submitted to CM Siddaramaiah Wednesday. Key Points
The Indian ExpressUsing public transport is liberating
Veteran film producer and actor Viveck Vaswani, a big votary of public transport, often shares his view on the ways of the world on Twitter. A few days ago he had posted a story about a man buying him his bus ticket, taken aback to see a celebrity use public transport. | Mumbai news Key Points
Hindustan Times
HC stays Delhi govt's notice halting Rapido, Uber & other aggregators' services
In a big relief to cab aggregators like Uber and Rapido, the Delhi High Court on Friday stayed the public notice and show cause notice issued by the Delhi transport Department against continuing their operations. The state government in Feb directed app-based bike taxi companies to stop their services immediately to avoid prosecution and penalties. Key Points
Economic TimesMP govt demands over ₹6 cr from scheduled caste dept for Gwalior function
In the letter signed on April 6 by the state transport commissioner, it has requested to allot 80% i.e. Rs. 4.94 crore of the total estimated required fare amount of ₹6.18 crore, in advance Key Points
Hindustan Times'Incidents like ORR traffic congestion will be a regular sight': Netizens on 'ban' on carpool services in Bengaluru
'We have not banned (carpooling), this is a false news. First, let them take permission. They have not taken permission, where is the question of banning,' clarifies Karnataka transport minister Ramalinga Reddy amid social media outrage Key Points
Business TodayTruckers urged to resume work after government assurance on new hit-and-run law
Truckers protesting against the new hit-and-run law have been urged by the All India Motor transport Association (AIMTC) to resume work. The development came after the truckers' body's key meeting with the government on the matter. Key Points
India TodayBids invited to implement Vehicle Location Tracking System in U.P.
The Uttar Pradesh transport department is inviting bids for a company to implement a Vehicle Location Tracking System (VLTS) for public transport vehicles in the state. The system will monitor vehicles in real-time and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Key Points
Hindustan Times
Pedestrians in peril with no foot overbridge between Krishnarajapuram railway and K.R. Pura Bengaluru metro stations
Despite being an eagerly awaited project, the opening of the Namma Metro line between K.R. Puram and Whitefield has again proven that the integration of various modes of transport is an afterthought for authorities. Are the passengers at risk due to no foot overbridge between key transit points? Read the full story on The Hindu to find out. Key Points
The HinduFree bus travel for women in Karnataka from June 1: transport Minister
A KSRTC official told The Hindu that the Minister has taken all details, including revenue and condition of bus fleet, from officials. He discussed how the corporations can offer free bus service to women passengers in Karnataka. Key Points
The HinduTruckers' protest: MHA agrees to keep new hit & run laws on hold
The All India Motor transport Congress (AIMTC) has said that the Ministry of Home Affairs has agreed to put a new provision imposing ten years of punishment and fine for hit-and-run cases on hold until the next meeting of the transport Congress. The government and transporters have appealed to truck drivers to resume work. Key Points
Economic TimesRBI permits banks to issue pre-paid instruments for payments across public transport systems
Mumbai, Feb 23 (PTI) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday permitted banks and non-banking institutions to issue pre-paid instruments for making payments across various public transport systems. With the introduction of these instruments, commuters will have more options to pay for tickets besides cash mode. The instruments will provide convenience, speed, affordability and safety […] Key Points
ThePrintMahindra, Embraer tie up for medium transport aircraft in India
Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra have inked an MoU to potentially establish India as a hub for the C-390 aircraft. They aim to secure a contract with the Indian Air Force for medium transport aircraft. This partnership will introduce advanced aerospace and military transport technology to India. Key Points
Economic TimesAshok Leyland secures supply order for 1,225 buses for Karnataka State transport Undertakings
Mumbai, Jan 18 (PTI) Commercial vehicle maker Ashok Leyland on Thursday said it has secured a supply order for 1,225 buses from the Karnataka State transport Undertakings. The fully built Viking buses will be delivered by April, the company said in a statement. The state government undertaking already has over 11,680 operational buses in its […] Key Points
ThePrintSingapore's car-lite policy reduces car ownership to one-third, down from 40% in 2013
The government aims to have 75 per cent of peak-period journeys made on public transport by 2030. Singapore has witnessed a decline in car owners, with approximately one-third of households owning automobiles in the city-state, down from 40 per cent in 2013, as the government progresses towards transforming the country into a car-lite society, a senior minister said on Monday. Key Points
The Tribune IndiaIndia's new safety ratings for passenger cars to start on Oct. 1
India's new safety rating system for passenger cars will be implemented from Oct. 1, the country's Ministry of Road transport and Highways said on Tuesday. Key Points
ReutersIt is inexplicable that the ‘empty mile’ issue is not solved
The transportation and logistics industry faces inefficiencies due to "empty miles" - the distance a freight truck travels with no cargo - accounting for nearly 20% of road freight transport in Europe in 2020. Carriers are attempting to improve network planning, but some shipments are one-way only, leaving trucks to return empty. The solution could be a digital public infrastructure (DPI) similar to India's Unified Logistics Interface Platform, which could identify transport vehicles returning unladen and match them with consignors looking to transport their goods. Private companies are already addressing this issue, but a population-scale DPI accessible through open protocols could solve the problem. Key Points
mintIndia eyes moving e-commerce cargo through Ganga river
India is establishing a route on the Ganga river for transporting e-commerce cargo through National Waterway 1. A partnership between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and Amazon Seller Services aims to leverage water transport's efficiency, sustainability, and economic benefits. The initiative seeks to optimize logistics, reduce environmental impact, and promote economic development. Key Points
Economic Times
Karnataka election: Bengaluru bus services to be hit on May 9 & 10, some restaurants to stay shut
Karnataka Assembly elections will affect bus services on May 9 and 10 as vehicles will be diverted for election duty, according to two state transport corporations. Some restaurants too are planning to stay shut on dry days as they won't be able to serve alcohol. Key Points
India TodayGovt will come out with policies to get public transport in most Indian cities: Advisor to PM
While the government now will come out with policies to get public transport to most of the Indian cities, we will also ensure that this happens with electricity and not with diesel. Therefore, on public transport also you can look forward to a very large support from the government coming in. Key Points
Economic TimesRBI permits banks, non-banks to issue PPIs for making payments in public transport systems
Last month, the central bank barred Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) from accepting deposits, credit transactions, or top-ups in any customer accounts, wallets, NCMC and FASTags. NCMC stands for National Common Mobility Card, which is an interoperable transport card facilitated by the Indian government for travel on metro and buses. Key Points
Business Today2024 Interim Budget: Emphasizing policy continuity in a mature economy
The interim budget is reassuring with no big surprises. The fiscal deficit target for FY24 will be met and a tighter target is proposed for FY25, freeing up space for private borrowings. The budget focuses on trade, tourism, and transportation, with investments in railway corridors, airports, and public transport. It also supports the PLI and IDEAS schemes and emphasizes managing inflation and inclusive growth. The budget addresses women's and children's health, housing, and sustainability through the rooftop solar scheme. Overall, it indicates the government's intent and sets expectations for the full budget. Key Points
The Economic TimesGovernment mandates air-conditioned truck cabins starting October 2025
From October 1, 2025, new trucks in N2 and N3 categories must have air-conditioned cabins, mandated by the Road transport Ministry. The notification aims to enhance truck driver working conditions, as affirmed by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, emphasizing the significance of addressing their welfare in the transport sector. Gadkari highlighted the necessity for such measures despite concerns about increased costs, aiming to improve truck drivers' well-being working in extreme heat conditions. Key Points
Economic Times
Parliamentary panel calls for 'reasonable' cap on air fares
A parliamentary panel in India has recommended the introduction of reasonable upper fare caps for all airlines to ensure accessibility of air transport. The report also suggested devising a mechanism to encourage airlines to implement a price lock option for customers to reserve seats without paying the actual ticket price upfront. Key Points
Economic TimesEAM Jaishankar rides 'Made in India' train in Mozambique
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar rode a train in Mozambique that was made in India. He also met the President of the African country’s Parliament to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Key Points
The HinduLargest strike in decades leaves Germany at a standstill
A 24-hour strike has been called by the Verdi trade union and railway and transport union EVG, on behalf of around 2.5 million employees in the public sector. Key Points
India TodayOla, Uber and Rapido bike taxi services banned in Delhi: Full story in 5 points
The notice by the Delhi transport department clearly states that the ban on bike taxis will come into effect immediately. The government notice points out that if service providers like Ola, Uber, and Rapido riders continue to provide bike taxi service in Delhi, then a fine will be charged. Key Points
India TodayOla, Uber and Rapido bike taxi services banned in Delhi: 5 points
The notice by the Delhi transport department clearly states that the ban on bike taxis will come into effect immediately. The government notice points out that if service providers like Ola, Uber, and Rapido riders continue to provide bike taxi service in Delhi, then a fine will be charged. Key Points
India Today
Mumbai's infra boom promises ease of mobility, but at a heavy cost — the air the city breathes
Mumbai has overtaken Delhi in infra development & construction, but now also sometimes beats it in air pollution. A crowded city, it could also face water supply & waste disposal issues. Key Points
ThePrintKazakhstan pushes to increase trade with India via INSTC
Kazakhstan aims to increase trade with India through the International North South transport Corridor (INSTC), which connects Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Iran. Plans for a joint venture and modernization of checkpoints are underway to improve transportation along the corridor. Key Points
Economic TimesTata & Ashok Leyland get busy on a bumpy road to India's green transport push
India is prioritising electric buses to curb emissions and traffic congestion. Ashok Leyland, Tata Motors, and Olectra Greentech plan to deploy e-buses. India establishes a payment-security fund. Regulatory support is crucial for the success of electric buses. Key Points
Economic TimesHow many trips could China's Lunar new year witness? Record nine billion
The next Lunar New Year, the Year of the Wood Dragon, is officially celebrated in mid-February but the holiday rush will start from Jan. 26. | World News Key Points
Hindustan TimesFree bus travel for women in Karnataka | How does Shakti scheme work?
The Fare-Free Public transport (FFPT) has been adopted in many countries and by various States in India. Australia and certain pockets of the U.S., among others, experimented with the concept for many years. Key Points
The Hindu
Karnataka: Women safety to be a real, and holistic 'pink incentive' for mobility
A free public service often deteriorates in quality as its maintenance is neglected. The political will should be rather on designing the overall transportation keeping women safety and their mobility needs in mind. Key Points
The Economic TimesCapex on National Highways increased from Rs 51,000 cr in FY14 to Rs 2,40,000 cr in FY23, Parliament told
Union Road transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari said budgetary allocation of the road ministry has increased from about Rs 31,130 crore in 2013-14 to Rs 2,70,435 crore in 2023-24. Such increased budgetary allocation led to expansion of the National Highway (NH) network in the country from about 91,287 km in March 2014 to about 1,46,145 km at present, Gadkari added. Key Points
Economic TimesSeamless travel ahead: Government to soon introduce barrier-less tolling; Details inside
A revolutionary change is on the horizon for commuters as the government readies itself to launch a barrier-less tolling system. Through ongoing trials, the aim is to eradicate wait times completely at toll booths. Minister of State for Road transport and Highways, V K Singh, shared that upon the success of these trials, swift implementation is in the cards. This development holds the potential to transform the tolling experience, offering a significant reduction in delays and an overall enhanced travel convenience. Key Points
Economic Times‘Barbaric act by Ukraine’: Russia on plane crash in Belgorod that killed 65 POWs
Belgorod Plane Crash: Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential adviser, said: "Comments will come a little later. Time is needed to clarify all the data." | World News Key Points
Hindustan TimesRoad map in the works to ease Delhi, Bengaluru traffic
The Indian government is developing a multi-modal transport infrastructure plan to alleviate traffic congestion in Bengaluru and New Delhi. The plan, being prepared by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade in collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation, will consider both passenger and goods transport as demand. Other cities will be able to adopt this plan, and it will also address improving passenger and goods movement to and from railway stations. Key Points
Economic Times
Nearly 20K applicants from Mumbai and MMR failed driving licence test in 2022
Over 76,000 applicants failed their driving licence test in Maharashtra last year, with more than 25% from Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The failure rate is the highest in six years, prompting officials to make the tests tougher, while road safety experts have called for the process to be even more stringent. More than 1.20 crore people took driving licence tests in the state from 2017 to 2022, with 2.89 lakh failing, according to data from the transport department. | Mumbai news Key Points
Hindustan TimesA Rubberized Cybertruck Is Plowing Through European Pedestrian Safety Rules
Tesla’s troubled electric pickup is illegal in Europe, yet somehow a barely modified model has found a way to get licensed. A group of European transport organizations claim this ride could spell disaster. Key Points
WIREDChina sees robust travel, tourism demand during New Year's Day holiday
During the New Year holidays, more than 128 million passenger trips were made on China's transport network, up 78.4% from 2023 and 33.1% from 2022, according to Ministry of transport figures reported by state media. Key Points
Business TodayOnly 6 Metro networks, buses in 3 states using Modi govt’s ‘one nation, one card’ 4 yrs after launch
Transport experts appreciate ‘One Nation One Card’ concept but question need for physical card in time of UPI. Housing ministry officials say upgrading systems, transition 'will take time’. Key Points
ThePrint