Bengaluru and Mumbai Metro networks need to be paired with credible Low Emission Zones (LEZ) plans
By Sushant Kumar, and Pranjal Kothawade
If you have driven in London, you may be familiar with the terms – Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), and Congestion Charge. Effectively, if you drive in the red area marked on the map below, you need to pay GBP 15 per day, and if your car does not meet ULEZ emission standards (Euro 4 petrol, Euro 6 diesel), you will need to pay GBP 12.5 per day for driving in ULEZ or the blue zone marked on the map. For non-compliant lorries, the charges are higher.
London has managed a reduction of 44% NO2 and 27% PM2.5 due to these measures. Several other global examples have demonstrated the effectiveness of LEZs, with Brussels achieving a 38% PM2.5 and 9% NOx reduction, Seoul reporting a 16% PM2.5 reduction, and Haifa recording a 19% NOx reduction.
What are LEZs, and are they implemented in India?
LEZs are designated areas where the most polluting vehicles are restricted or banned. They encourage uptake of cleaner vehicles, public transport, and active modes such as walking and cycling.
Some Indian cities have begun this transition. Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune, and Sambhajinagar are piloting LEZs, with projections showing up to 80% reduction in emissions within the designated areas.
Growing metro networks in Indian cities and relevance of LEZ
Several Indian cities are investing in metro rail to address congestion and improve urban mobility. Bengaluru recently inaugurated the 19.5 km Yellow Line of Namma Metro, expected to have a daily ridership of around 25,000 passengers. Since 2023, Mumbai has operated two metro lines, albeit running at only 33% capacity. Maharashtra’s Chief Minister has announced that a substantial portion of the planned 374 km Mumbai Metro network will be operational by 2027.
While metro expansion is a vital step, its effectiveness depends on ensuring high ridership. Achieving this requires strong last-mile connectivity and making journeys convenient for choice riders—those with access to private transport but willing to shift to public systems if they are efficient and reliable. Increased use of public transport would lead to fewer private vehicles on the road, driving down emissions and improving urban air quality.
Yet, metros alone are not sufficient for sustainable mobility. They cannot independently solve India’s urban transport and air pollution challenges. To maximise impact, cities should put in place last mile connectivity and adopt complementary measures such as LEZs.
Key considerations
For LEZs to be effective, cities should focus on:
- Data-driven planning: Use localised data to identify pollution hotspots and the vehicle types contributing most to emissions, and project the need for last mile connectivity
- Complementary measures: Strengthen public transport, last mile connectivity, walking, and cycling infrastructure to ensure equitable alternatives for all commuters
- Cross-agency coordination: Ensure alignment between municipal bodies, transport authorities, and enforcement agencies
- Enforcement infrastructure: Invest in technologies such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for effective monitoring
The way forward
Implementing LEZs is rewarding, yet challenging due to the potential disruptions and costs to the public. It requires political commitment, adequate planning, strong public transport, public engagement, and credible last-mile alternatives. However, as Indian cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai continue to expand their metro networks, pairing these investments with LEZs offers a comprehensive approach to reducing emissions, improving air quality, and building healthier urban environments.