Modal Shift in Transportation
The concept of a "modal shift" in transportation is gaining traction globally, aiming to transition people and goods from road and air transport to railways. This shift is crucial for environmental, traffic, and economic impacts.
Environmental Impact of Transport
- Transport accounts for nearly a quarter of global energy-related carbon emissions.
- Road transport is the major contributor to CO2 emissions.
- Trains emit significantly less CO2 than cars, buses, or airplanes:
- Trains: 19 grams of CO2 per passenger per kilometer
- Buses: 63 grams
- Airplanes: 123 grams
- Cars: 148 grams
Decline in Rail Use
- Between 2007 and 2021, global freight moved by train declined from 51% to 40%.
- Passenger rail share dropped from 12% to 8% during the same period.
- Increased road transport in countries like India and China contributes to this decline.
Potential Benefits of Increased Rail Use
- Switching to rail could prevent up to 1.8 billion tons of carbon emissions by 2050.
- The European Union aims to shift 30% of road freight to rail/ship by 2030 and 50% by 2050.
- China's shift to rail has resulted in reduced road traffic and a cleaner environment.
India's Rail Initiatives
- India's National Rail Plan aims to increase rail freight share to 45% by 2030 with investments in Dedicated Freight Corridors.
- Metro rail systems in cities like Delhi and Mumbai are promoting a modal shift:
- Delhi Metro reduced road vehicles by over five lakh daily in 2021.
- Mumbai's metro and monorail share is projected to rise, reducing motor vehicle use.
Challenges and Opportunities
- India, a major GHG emitter, aims for net-zero status by 2070, requiring reductions in transport emissions.
- India can earn carbon credits by proving reduced emissions through rail use, but must adhere to strict international rules.
- As trains shift to electricity, India must clean its electricity sources, favoring renewables over coal.
Transitioning from road to rail is vital for creating a sustainable future in India, with potential benefits for emissions, the economy, and daily life. With strategic planning and investment, India can lead this transformative change globally.