India's Logistics Sector and Decarbonisation
The vision of Viksit Bharat aims for a stronger, self-reliant India by 2047, focusing on inclusive development. A crucial component in achieving this vision is transforming the logistics sector to be efficient and sustainable, vital for equitable and sustained growth.
Environmental Considerations in Logistics
- India's logistics sector is highly carbon-intensive, contributing 13.5% to the country's total greenhouse gas emissions.
- Road transport accounts for 88% of these emissions, with trucks alone responsible for 38% of CO2 emissions.
- Government policies aim to expand cargo and passenger movement on inland waterways and coastal shipping significantly by 2030.
Comparative Global Efforts
Countries like China and the United States have shifted freight transport from road to rail, significantly reducing emissions:
- China has expanded its rail network, achieving nearly 50% rail share in freight transport.
- The US has embraced rail as an early decarbonised freight option.
India's Decarbonisation Initiatives
- Efforts to electrify highways, such as the pilot project on the Delhi-Jaipur corridor for electric trucks, aim to reduce road freight emissions.
- Coastal shipping and inland waterways offer potential for decarbonisation through cleaner fuels like LNG, hydrogen, and biofuels.
Sector-Specific Challenges and Solutions
- Air Transport: Difficult to decarbonise due to reliance on refined fuels, but sustainable aviation fuels offer potential solutions.
- Warehousing: Significant emissions contributor due to energy consumption; transitioning to renewable energies like solar can reduce the carbon footprint.
Conclusion
Decarbonising the logistics sector is crucial not only for reducing emissions but also for building a competitive, resilient, and future-ready industry. By investing in rail freight, electrifying road transport, adopting cleaner maritime fuels, and enhancing warehouse energy efficiency, India can lead the way in creating a sustainable logistics ecosystem.