Urban Mobility India Conference Concludes in Bhubaneswar; CRUT Wins Green Transport Award
Bhubaneswar, Oct 24: The 19th edition of the Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Exhibition concluded in Bhubaneswar on Friday, bringing together policymakers, urban planners, transport experts, researchers, and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of sustainable and people-centric urban transportation.
During the valedictory session, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal presented awards recognising excellence in urban transport initiatives across the country.
Addressing delegates, the Union Minister emphasised that urban mobility must be integrated into city planning from the very beginning.
He outlined a “3-I” framework for future mobility development comprising Integration, Inclusiveness, and Intelligence.
According to him, cities must focus on seamless connectivity between different modes of transport, ensure accessibility for all citizens, and leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and real-time data systems to improve traffic management and commuter safety.
The minister also highlighted significant progress in India’s urban transport sector.
He noted that nine metro rail projects covering nearly 174 kilometres have been approved since December 2025 with investments exceeding ₹59,000 crore.
He further stated that the country’s operational metro network has expanded to 1,185 kilometres across 26 cities.
The government’s PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme is also gaining momentum, with over 1,100 electric buses currently serving nearly 2.5 lakh passengers daily in 28 cities.
Odisha Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr Krushna Chandra Mahapatra called for translating conference discussions into practical solutions that improve urban living.
He stressed the importance of making cities safer, more accessible, and more livable through efficient public transportation systems.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Chief Secretary Usha Padhee highlighted Odisha’s growing role in urban development and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustainable and people-centric mobility solutions.
The conference also celebrated innovations in urban transport through a series of national awards.
Bhubaneswar’s Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) received the award for Best Green Transport Initiative, while Chennai secured recognition for its Non-Motorized Transport System. Delhi transport agencies were honoured for innovation, smart mobility, and public transport services.
Held under the theme “Urban Accessibility and Liveability in Digital Age,” the conference featured 14 technical sessions, participation from nearly 1,500 delegates, 28 exhibitors, and presentations of 46 research papers, underscoring the growing importance of sustainable mobility solutions in India’s urban transformation journey.
