New Delhi: Stating that about 40 percent of the total air pollution in India is due to road traffic, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari today said it is important to promote public transport in the country.
Addressing the Biennial International Conference on Ports, Shipping, and Logistics in Mumbai today, Mr. Gadkari said the BJP-led Central Government accords highest priority to ecology and environment and is working on various projects on a war footing to curb pollution.
He mentioned that the double-decker electric bus service in Mumbai, building of electric highways, 36 green highways, and the approval given to 260 ropeways and cable cars across the country are some examples of these measures.
Stating that water transport is a cost-effective travel option as compared to road and rail transport, Mr. Gadkari said a water transport option between Mumbai and Goa can go a long way in changing the transport and logistics needs of this route.
Talking about some developmental projects, Mr. Gadkari informed that the construction of dry ports at Jalna and Wardha in Maharashtra has been completed while construction work of similar dry ports in Nashik and Pune is now being undertaken.
Speaking about logistic parks, Mr. Gadkari said his ministry is working to set up 5-6 logistics parks in Maharashtra. He added that infrastructure is also being developed to produce incense sticks in the country and get rid of the title of highest import of incense sticks as soon as possible.
