Role of multimodal connectivity for last mile connectivity

Published on 23 Feb 2025

The absence of efficient last-mile connectivity, the final stretch between public transport hubs and destinations, is a pressing challenge. To overcome this, the integration of multiple transport modes – such as buses, metro, shared mobility, and walking is imperative. Multimodal systems enhance accessibility, reduce travel times, and promote sustainable living.

Reasons for lack of last mile connectivity

• Poor road infrastructure: Inadequate roads, especially in rural areas and urban slums, with potholes and narrow lanes in cities like Mumbai.

• Rapid urbanization: Sprawling cities with unplanned development like Gurgaon and Noida leading to longer commutes.

• High transportation costs: Expensive bus and train fares for low-income groups, especially in metro cities.

• Geographical constraints: Hilly terrains in states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and riverine challenges in West Bengal.

• Lack of integrated transport planning: Poor coordination between metro, bus, and local train services like Mumbai's local trains and bus connectivity.

• Insufficient government investment: Limited funding for bus services, metro expansion, and pedestrian infrastructure.

Role of multi modal connectivity in addressing these challenges

• Overcoming Geographical Challenges

• Bridging the gap: Connecting remote and hilly regions through a combination of road, rail, and air transport.

• Example: The Leh-Ladakh region effectively utilizes a combination of road, rail, and air transport. The Srinagar-Leh highway connects the recently inaugurated Bilaspur-Leh railway line.

• Waterways potential: Utilizing inland waterways for transportation in riverine areas.

• Example: The Brahmaputra river is being leveraged for inland water transport through projects like the National Waterways-16. Railways are being expanded, and roads are being improved to enhance connectivity within the north east region

• Infrastructure development: Investing in infrastructure like roads, railways, and airports in underserved regions.

• Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Costs

• Optimal mode selection: Choosing the most suitable mode of transport for different types of goods and distances.

• Example: Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project aims to develop industrial corridors with integrated infrastructure, including high-speed rail, dedicated freight corridors, and improved port connectivity.

• Reducing transit time: Minimizing delays and improving delivery speed through efficient modal shifts.

• Cost optimization: Leveraging economies of scale and reducing logistics expenses.

• Improving Accessibility and Inclusivity

• Expanding reach: Providing transportation options to underserved populations, including rural areas and urban slums.

• Social impact: Promoting economic development and social welfare through improved connectivity.

• Integration with public transport: Connecting people to essential services like healthcare, education, and employment. 

• Example: Metro Rail and Feeder Buses: Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata have extensive metro rail networks. These are complemented by feeder bus services to enhance public transport

• Promoting Sustainable Development

• Reducing carbon emissions: Opting for eco-friendly modes of transport like railways and waterways.

• Minimizing congestion: Diverting traffic from roads to reduce pollution and traffic jams.

• Resource optimization: Efficient utilization of transportation infrastructure and energy.

• Leveraging Technology

• Digital platforms: Using technology for real-time tracking, route optimization, and freight management.  

• Example: Many logistics companies in India use GPS tracking systems to monitor the movement of goods, optimize routes, and improve delivery efficiency. 

• Integration of modes: Developing digital systems for seamless transfer of goods between different modes.

• Data analytics: Utilizing data to improve decision-making and optimize transportation operations.

Tags:
Geography

Keywords:
Role of multimodal connectivity for last mile connectivity transport Reasons for lack of last mile connectivity Role of multi modal connectivity in addressing these challenges Multimodal connectivity initiatives of India

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1