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Sowmya Kannan, Researcher

The helmet conundrum - An assessment of child helmet usage and availability in Chennai

The Helmet Conundrum: A study by CAG surveying 520 parents and 145 helmet shops in Chennai reveals that only 25% of children wear helmets, with 12% using adult helmets. Shocking findings considering that children are amongst the most vulnerable of road users and the parental instinct is to prioritise safety of their children, even over their own.

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Alternate renewable energy sources in transportation

India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. While the expansion and improvement of road transport improves socio-economic development, they have also brought significant environmental challenges in India, including a sharp rise in CO2 emissions and air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOX) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

The role of sustainable transport in pro-poor mobility

In the ever-expanding urban landscapes of today's world, the pressing issues of congestion, pollution, and accessibility continue to disproportionately affect the most vulnerable segments of society—the poor. As cities grow and sprawl, traditional approaches to transportation planning have often favoured motorised vehicles, exacerbating inequalities and hindering mobility for those with limited resources. However, amidst these challenges lies a beacon of hope: sustainable modes of transport.

Child helmets - a necessity?

Two-wheelers are the preferred mode of transportation for many Indians. They are certainly more affordable than a car. It is no wonder then that, globally, India has the highest number of registered two-wheelers and they account for nearly 75% of all vehicles registered in the country (Road Transport Year Book 2020, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways). 

Integrated ticketing system for public transport

The concept of integrated ticketing system in public transportation revolutionises the way users access various modes of transport through a unified platform, such as mobile apps or mobility cards. This system, embraced by cities worldwide like London and Hong Kong, relies on cashless transactions for its seamless operation.

Road Safety Month, 2024

To mark National Road Safety Month, observed between January 15 and February 14, CAG conducted road safety awareness programs in three schools - Sri Gurumurthy Vidyalaya High School in Kodungaiyur; Don Bosco Matric Hr.Sec.School in Erukkancheri; and Chennai Middle School in Perambur on 2nd, 8th and 9th of February, 2024 respectively. 

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15-minute cities

When asked, "What are your preferences when searching for accommodation?", for the majority, the ideal place to stay would be one that is in close proximity to shops, hospitals, schools, and, crucially, workplaces. Many desire the convenience of having essential services near their residence. Unfortunately, the current reality in cities diverges from this ideal.

Ensuring safe school journeys for all children

Over the years, the number of schools, especially private ones, has burgeoned and so have mobility options for the school commute.  This has provided families with the flexibility to choose schools located farther from their homes. However, this also means there are more road safety risks for their children if precautions aren't taken.