Marking World Car-Free Day on September 22, residents of Nagpur came together to support the national campaign ‘Double the Bus’, which calls for stronger investment in public transport as a solution to India’s growing car dependence. The initiative highlights that without urgent action to expand bus fleets, cities will continue to grapple with traffic congestion, worsening air pollution, and unsafe commuting conditions.
Over the weekend and on Monday, volunteers, commuters, and civil society members gathered at major bus stops including Mor Bhavan, Law College Square, Ganeshpeth, Cotton Market, and LAD College Square. Holding placards and distributing leaflets, campaigners engaged with citizens to spread awareness. The Nagpur drive was part of a larger three-day movement also held in Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, and Kochi.
“Nagpur needs at least 2,000 buses, but only 436 are currently operational. Overcrowding, unreliable services, and frequent breakdowns have left commuters struggling. In February alone, 297 buses failed mid-service, disrupting schedules,” said Leena Buddhe, Founder Director of the Centre for Sustainable Development (CSD) and the local organiser of the event.
Advocates stressed that expanding bus fleets is about more than just transport—it is a step toward social equity, safer roads, cleaner air, and affordable mobility. Doubling the number of buses, they argue, will reduce reliance on private vehicles, offering a healthier and more sustainable future for cities.
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