MEVE 016: Unit 13 – Urban Transportation and Energy Conservation

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 UNIT 13: URBAN TRANSPORTATION AND ENERGY CONSERVATION

13.0 Introduction

Urban transport systems form the backbone of economic productivity and social interaction in cities. However, traditional modes of urban mobility have resulted in traffic congestion, increased fossil fuel consumption, vehicular emissions, and adverse health impacts. As cities expand, ensuring energy-efficient, low-carbon, and sustainable urban transport becomes a critical challenge for urban planners and policymakers.

This unit explores the interrelationship between urban transport and energy consumption, identifies core transport challenges, and discusses strategies for achieving energy efficiency and reducing emissions through better design, alternate technologies, and sustainable transport models.

13.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, the learner will be able to:

  • Understand the energy implications of urban transport systems.
  • Analyze issues in inter-city and intra-city transportation.
  • Explain the role of urban structure in transport efficiency.
  • Identify sustainable, low-carbon transport strategies.
  • Explore alternative technologies for energy-efficient human settlement planning.

13.2 Energy Efficiency and Policy Measures: Systemic Approach to Urban Mobility

13.2.1.1 Urban Transport & Energy

Urban transport is a significant consumer of energy, primarily petroleum-based fuels. Cities with inefficient layouts and poor public transport rely heavily on private vehicles, leading to higher energy usage and environmental degradation.

  • Private vs Public Transport: Private vehicles are less energy-efficient per capita than public transport.
  • City Design: Compact cities reduce travel distance and energy use, while sprawled cities promote car dependency.

13.2.1.2 Transport – Its Global Contribution to Energy Demand

Globally, the transport sector accounts for around 25% of energy-related CO₂ emissions, with urban transport being a major contributor. The majority of urban transport energy is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels.

  • In India, urban transport accounts for about 18% of final energy use and continues to grow due to rising urban populations and incomes.

13.2.1.3 Urban Structure and Efficiency of Various Transport Modes

  • Dense, mixed-use development enables walking, cycling, and short-distance public transport.
  • Low-density suburban layouts often increase vehicle ownership and travel distances.
  • Energy Efficiency by Mode:
    • Walking and cycling: Zero emissions.
    • Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): High energy efficiency per passenger-km.
    • Cars and motorcycles: Least energy-efficient.

13.2.1.4 Transport Sector Emissions and Urban Transport

  • CO₂ Emissions: A direct result of fuel combustion in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
  • Air Pollution: Vehicular exhaust releases PM2.5, NOx, CO, and unburnt hydrocarbons—causing respiratory illness and smog.
  • Urban Heat Island Effect: Paved roads and traffic congestion contribute to rising temperatures.

13.3 Parameters for Inter-City and Intra-City Transport Issues and Interventions

13.3.1.1 Growth of Urban Centers

Urban population growth intensifies pressure on transportation systems. In India, megacities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru face critical congestion and travel delays due to inadequate and aging infrastructure.

13.3.1.2 Inadequate Transport Infrastructure

  • Poor road design, lack of pedestrian paths, and limited public transport coverage reduce efficiency and accessibility.
  • Overloaded systems lead to delays, energy wastage, and higher emissions.

13.3.1.3 Vehicular Emission, Pollution and Health Impact

  • Emissions from transport are a leading cause of urban air pollution.
  • Chronic exposure leads to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and premature deaths.
  • Cities like Delhi consistently rank among the world’s most polluted.

13.3.1.4 Road Safety Issues

India has one of the highest rates of road accidents globally. Contributing factors include:

  • Poor traffic enforcement.
  • Inadequate pedestrian crossings.
  • Unsafe road design.
  • Lack of public awareness.

13.4 Use of Alternate Technology for Designing Human Settlements

13.4.1.1 Approaches to Land Use and Transport Planning

  • Integrated Planning: Align land use with transport systems to minimize travel distances and encourage public transport.
  • Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Develop high-density, mixed-use communities around transit stations.

13.4.1.2 Public Transport Networks

  • Metro Systems: Efficient and low-emission solution for high-density corridors.
  • Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Offers rapid service at lower cost than metros.
  • Feeder Services: Last-mile connectivity via mini-buses, e-rickshaws.

Public transport significantly reduces energy use per passenger and offers inclusive mobility.

13.4.1.3 Transport Energy Consumption and Urban Form

  • Compact Urban Form: Reduces overall energy consumption by shortening travel distances.
  • Sprawled Development: Leads to car dependency and higher emissions.
  • Mixed-Use Development: Enables residents to live near workplaces, schools, and shops, reducing transport needs.

13.4.1.4 Challenges and Issues of Transport

  • Institutional fragmentation among agencies.
  • Poor data for planning and evaluation.
  • Resistance to behavior change and public transport adoption.
  • Rising two-wheeler and car ownership in mid-tier cities.

13.5 Sustainable and Low Carbon Transport

13.5.1.1 Potential Measures

  • Electrification of Public Transport: EV buses, e-rickshaws, and metro systems.
  • Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) Infrastructure: Cycling lanes, pedestrian pathways.
  • Digital Solutions: Smart traffic systems, GPS-based tracking of buses.
  • Fuel Efficiency Standards and Vehicle Scrappage Policies.

13.5.1.2 Sustainable Development Benefits of Low Carbon Transport

  • Environmental: Lower GHG emissions and air pollutants.
  • Social: Greater access to opportunities for all income groups.
  • Economic: Reduced fuel import dependence, job creation in clean technology sectors.
  • Health: Reduced noise and air pollution improve urban quality of life.

13.5.1.3 Strategic Approach for Low Carbon Transport Systems

  • Policy Integration: Urban planning and transport must work together.
  • Incentives for adoption of EVs and use of public transport.
  • Public Awareness Campaigns: Promote eco-friendly commuting habits.
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encourage investment in infrastructure.

Case Example: Ahmedabad BRTS and Delhi Metro have significantly reduced travel time, energy use, and emissions.

13.6 Let Us Sum Up

Urban transportation is one of the largest energy-consuming sectors in growing cities. A sustainable future demands integrated solutions that include compact urban planning, public transit investment, clean energy use, and behavior change.

This unit emphasized the link between energy consumption and transport patterns, challenges of rapid urban growth, and potential policy interventions for creating low-carbon, efficient, and inclusive urban transport systems.

Promoting public transport, electrification, compact city design, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is essential for future-ready, energy-efficient urban development in India.

13.7 Key Words

  • Urban Mobility: Movement of people within cities.
  • Energy Efficiency: Using less energy to provide the same transport service.
  • Public Transport: Mass transit systems like buses, metros, and BRTS.
  • Low Carbon Transport: Transport systems with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Compact, walkable communities around public transit.
  • Transport Emissions: Pollutants released from vehicles into the atmosphere.

 

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