Tackling congestion requires moving on several fronts simultaneously – improving the quality and quantum of public transport, upping parking charges, and improved infrastructure for non-motorised vehicles. Delhi‘s vehicle population has risen by about 30% a year, while public parking sites remain relatively stagnant at 420. Progressive parking charges can help – higher rates for locations with high traffic inflow and parking demand, differential parking rates reflecting peak and off-peak hours, and efficient and smart parking solutions to optimise existing spaces.
Consumers also need amenable alternatives to private transport. Progressive countries have their car-owning population, the well-heeled included, who also opt for public transport, using their cars for special outings, weekends, road trips, etc. There is no silver bullet to decongesting. But encouraging car-users to avoid reaching out for their car keys for any purpose is where the answer lies.