India Approves National Urban Transport Policy

"The Union Cabinet has approved the National Urban Transport Policy that seeks to encourage integrated land use and transport planning in cities, and focuses on greater use of public transport and non-motorised modes by offering central financial assistance."

"The policy incorporates urban transportation as an important parameter at the urban planning stage. It emphasises on integrated land use, transport planning to minimise travel distance, access to livelihood, education and other social needs, especially for the marginal segments of the urban population. The policy also looks to improve access of business to the markets and various factors of production.

The policy's objective is to ensure safe, affordable, reliable and sustainable access for a growing number of city residents to education and employment. In this regard, the policy brings about an equitable allocation of road space, with people, rather than vehicles, as its

main focus."