The Role of Policy in Promoting Sustainable Transport in Pakistan

Pakistan, like many developing nations, is grappling with the challenges of rapid urbanization, population growth, and the pressing need for sustainable transportation solutions. The country’s transportation sector is a significant contributor to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and environmental degradation. To address these pressing issues and create a more sustainable and livable future, a comprehensive policy framework is crucial in promoting and facilitating the adoption of sustainable transport modes.

The Need for Sustainable Transport in Pakistan

The current transportation landscape in Pakistan is dominated by private vehicles and an inadequate public transportation system, leading to a range of environmental, social, and economic challenges:

Air Pollution and Public Health

Vehicle emissions are a major source of air pollution in urban centers, posing significant health risks to the population and contributing to respiratory illnesses and premature deaths.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The transportation sector accounts for a substantial portion of Pakistan’s greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating the impacts of climate change and hindering the country’s efforts to meet its international commitments.

Traffic Congestion and Economic Losses

Overcrowded roads and traffic gridlocks in major cities result in lost productivity, increased fuel consumption, and economic losses due to delays and inefficiencies.

Accessibility and Social Equity

Lack of affordable and reliable public transportation options disproportionately impacts low-income communities, limiting their access to employment, education, and essential services.

The Role of Policy in Promoting Sustainable Transport 

Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, with policy playing a pivotal role in shaping the transportation landscape and promoting sustainable alternatives. Effective policies can create an enabling environment for the adoption of sustainable transport modes, incentivize behavioral change, and foster collaboration among various stakeholders.

National Sustainable Transport Policy Framework

Pakistan needs a comprehensive national policy framework that outlines clear goals, targets, and strategies for promoting sustainable transport. This policy should address various aspects, including:

Prioritizing public transportation, non-motorized modes (walking and cycling), and shared mobility solutions.

Encouraging the adoption of clean and energy-efficient vehicles, such as electric and hybrid vehicles.

Integrating land-use planning and transportation planning to create compact, walkable urban environments.

Establishing emission standards and regulations for vehicles to reduce air pollution.

Incentives and Financing Mechanisms

Policies that provide financial incentives and dedicated funding can accelerate the transition towards sustainable transport. These measures may include:

Tax incentives and subsidies for the purchase of electric or hybrid vehicles, bicycles, and public transportation passes.

Establishing dedicated funds for the development of public transportation infrastructure, such as bus rapid transit (BRT) systems and rail networks.

Encouraging private sector investment and public-private partnerships in sustainable transportation projects through favorable policies and regulations.

Regulatory Measures and Enforcement

Strong regulatory measures and effective enforcement are essential for ensuring compliance and driving behavioral change. Policies in this domain may involve:

Implementing vehicle emission testing and enforcing strict emission standards to phase out polluting vehicles.

Restricting private vehicle access in certain areas or during peak hours to reduce congestion and promote alternative modes of transportation.

Establishing parking policies and pricing mechanisms that discourage private vehicle usage in urban centers.

Public Awareness and Education

Raising public awareness and promoting behavioral change are crucial components of a successful sustainable transport policy. Initiatives in this area may include:

Launching public awareness campaigns to highlight the benefits of sustainable transport modes and their environmental and health impacts.

Incorporating sustainable transportation education into school curricula and community outreach programs.

Collaborating with media and influencers to promote positive narratives and role models for sustainable transportation choices.

Institutional Capacity Building and Coordination

Effective policy implementation requires strong institutional capacity and coordination among various stakeholders. Policies should focus on:

Enhancing the capacity of relevant government agencies and decision-makers through training, resource allocation, and technical assistance.

Establishing coordination mechanisms and platforms for collaboration among federal, provincial, and local authorities, as well as private sector and civil society organizations.

Promoting research and data collection to inform evidence-based policymaking and monitoring progress towards sustainable transport goals.

Conclusion

By developing and implementing comprehensive policies that address these key areas, Pakistan can pave the way for a sustainable transportation future. Effective policies can create an enabling environment for the adoption of clean and efficient transport modes, reduce the country’s carbon footprint, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life for its citizens.

This article is written by Radma Nouman. Radma is a research analyst at IMARAT Institute of Policy Studies (IIPS).