By priya
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Updated On: 07-Jul-2025 06:24 AM
India announces a new mobility plan featuring hyperloop technology, ropeways in 360 locations, electric rapid transport, and green highways to reduce pollution and enhance connectivity.
Key Highlights:
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a wide-ranging mobility transformation plan that aims to completely reshape India's transportation system. From futuristic hyperloop technology to electric rapid transport and ropeways, this plan targets both urban and remote areas to improve connectivity and cut environmental damage.
Ropeways and Cable Cars at 360 Locations
One of the key components of the plan is the rollout of ropeways, cable cars, and funicular railways in 360 locations across the country. Sites like Kedarnath are already seeing early progress, with 60 projects underway. The cost of each project ranges between ₹200 crore and ₹5,000 crore, signalling a strong push for alternative, terrain-friendly mobility solutions.
High-Speed Highway Upgrades and Mass Rapid Transport
Gadkari revealed that 25,000 km of two-lane highways will be converted into four-lane roads. At the same time, India will ramp up road construction to 100 km per day. The focus is also on creating electric mass rapid transport networks along major routes to reduce both travel time and logistics costs.
Pilot Projects: Hyperloop and Pod Taxis in the Works
Cities like Delhi and Bengaluru are set to witness pilot tests for new-age mobility options. These include:
Electric Bus Project Launches in Nagpur
An innovative electric bus pilot will be launched in Nagpur. These 135-seater buses are designed for long-distance travel, offer executive seating, AC, and premium interiors. They can reach speeds of 120–125 km/h and recharge in just 30–40 minutes. Gadkari said these buses are expected to cost 30% less to run than diesel ones, with significantly lower emissions.
Flex-Fuel Vehicles to Cut Fossil Fuel Use
Eleven major automakers, including Tata, Mahindra, Toyota, and Hyundai, have committed to producing flex-fuel engine vehicles. These vehicles can run on ethanol, methanol, biofuels, or traditional fuels. This shift is aimed at reducing dependency on fuel imports and lowering overall emissions.
Focus on Reducing Pollution and Logistics Costs
Gadkari stressed that the transport sector is responsible for 40% of India's air pollution. The new mobility initiatives are expected to lower emissions and reduce the country’s fuel import bill, which currently stands at ₹22 trillion annually. With better roads and infrastructure, the government hopes to bring down logistics costs from 14% of GDP to just 9% by year-end.
Extra Measures for Safer and Greener Travel
The Ministry is also enhancing road safety and environmental efforts:
Vision for the Future
Gadkari confidently stated that within a year, Indian highways will match U.S. road standards. He added that cities will soon have cable-run buses and electric mass transit systems. This transformative plan sets the stage for a cleaner, faster, and smarter transport network for India’s future.
Also Read: Nitin Gadkari Urges Reduction in Diesel Use in CE
CMV360 Says
This is one of India’s most forward-looking and well-rounded transport plans yet. By using futuristic technologies like the hyperloop with practical upgrades in road and electric bus infrastructure, the government is aiming for both ambition and accessibility. It’s promising to see attention given not just to cities but also to difficult terrains. The plan’s focus on cost reduction, pollution control, and modern mass mobility shows a clear shift toward long-term sustainability. Execution will be key, but the roadmap is visionary and much needed.