Patna: The Centre for Environment and Energy Development organised a roundtable on "Roadmap for improving public transport in Patna" here on Wednesday to identify the key barriers to a sustainable solution.

The discussion revolved around exploring possible financial, technological and regulatory support for a much-needed improvement to Patna's transport sector. Ashok Ghosh, chairman, Bihar State Pollution Control Board, was the chief guest at the programme where experts from different sectors explored plausible solutions to develop a clean and sustainable public transport system in Patna and alleviate the city's rising air pollution crisis.

"Today the biggest challenge for Patna is the intractable problem of automobile dependence. Over the years Patna has witnessed a steep rise in the number of vehicles, particularly those by private owners. To cap the emission from this sector, Patna needs an aggressive roadmap to increase users of public transport, and sustainable mobility," Ghosh said. "As chairman of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board, I shall take all corrective measures to manage air pollution. However, what is more important is the participation of citizens in the battle against air pollution."

Delegates unanimously held residents opt for private vehicles for quicker and convenient mobility options in the absence of an efficient public transport system. The need for an integrated public transport came up as a major recommendation at the roundtable.

Ravi Gadepalli, a transport sector expert from Bangalore, pointed out public transport improvement strategies for Bihar, with an emphasis on Patna. He said: "It is the need of the hour to reduce our dependence on motorised trips in urban areas, to bring down emissions from heavy duty vehicles for long-distance freight movement. It is also important that we develop a five-year roadmap to increase use of public transport."