Safar Saaf, Shehar Saaf

The Crisis in Patna: Air Pollution and Urban Transport

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is facing a severe air pollution crisis, ranking 20th among the 100 most polluted cities globally. The city’s transportation system is a significant contributor to this crisis, with a surge in motor vehicle production and a lack of infrastructure for non-motorized transportation (NMT) options like walking and cycling. 

The Consequences

1. 32,825 pedestrians were killed in road accidents in 2022, a 12.7% increase from the previous year 

2. 4,836 cyclist fatalities were reported in 2022 (Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Transport Research Wing)

3. Around 60,000 children are killed in road accidents in India every year, many of them as pedestrians. (Luke et al., 2020)

4. Roads are clogged, emissions are skyrocketing, and public spaces for pedestrians and cyclists are being eroded

Non-motorized transport offers a sustainable solution, but inadequate infrastructure limits its potential despite government initiatives like ‘Cycles4Change’ and ‘Transport4All.’

We urge the Urban Development & Housing Department of the Bihar Government to:

  1.  Prioritize NMT Infrastructure: Build secure, wide, and continuous walking and cycling lanes in Patna.
  2.  Ensure Safety: Implement stringent traffic laws to protect pedestrians and cyclists from vehicular traffic.
  3.  Promote Sustainable Development: Incorporate non-motorized transportation as a key component in urban mobility plans to reduce pollution and   traffic congestion.
  4.  Encourage Non-Motorized Travel: Provide incentives for citizens to walk or cycle more, including car-free zones, subsidies on cycles, and public   awareness campaigns.
  5.  Develop a Non-Motorized Transport Plan: Create a comprehensive NMT plan specifically for Patna.
  6.  Improve Pedestrian and Cyclist Infrastructure: Build pedestrian paths and dedicated cycling tracks throughout the city.
  7.  Enhance Safety for Women and Children: Install street lights on all roads and in residential lanes to ensure the safety of women and children.
  8.  Install CCTV Surveillance: Set up CCTV monitoring along roads and in residential areas for enhanced security.
  9.  Green Belt Development: Create green belts along roadsides and dividers to improve air quality and aesthetics.
  10.  Carbon-Free Public Transport System: Ensure the provision of a carbon-neutral public transport system.
  11.  Concessions for Women and Students: Offer discounts or travel passes for women and female students using public transportation.
  12.  Public Transport Accessibility: Guarantee proper public transport facilities in all areas of the city.
  13.  Bus Stop Facilities: Set up bus stops on all roads and provide toilets at bus stops, specifically for women.

To support this cause, you can sign the petition and provide your contact information, including name, age, current city, email, and contact number ¹. Together, we can make a significant impact on the environment and improve the quality of life for all Patna residents.

Join Us! Sign the Petition Below