Gurugram, Haryana: The 18th edition of the Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference & Exhibition 2025 was inaugurated today by Shri Manohar Lal, Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs and Power. The event marks another step toward India’s goal of developing integrated and sustainable transport systems across major cities.
Focus on Integrated Urban Development and Mobility
The conference, jointly organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) and the Government of Haryana through the Institute of Urban Transport (India) and Gurugram Metro Rail Limited (GMRL), is based on the theme ‘Urban Development and Mobility Nexus’. The theme emphasizes how urban planning and mobility systems are interlinked and influence economic growth, environmental sustainability, social equity, and public health.
Over 1,600 professionals, including senior officials from Central and State Governments, metro rail company heads, international experts, and academic representatives, are participating in this three-day event.
Union Minister Highlights Expansion of RRTS-like Systems
During his inaugural address, Shri Manohar Lal announced that transport systems similar to the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) will be developed in other major cities, expanding fast and efficient inter-city connectivity. He also highlighted India’s achievement of operating nearly 1,100 km of metro network, making it the third-largest in the world, soon expected to become the second largest.
Under the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative, the Minister announced the deployment of 10,000 electric buses across smaller cities, with 100 e-buses specifically allocated for Gurugram. He also stressed the need to enhance last-mile connectivity to improve metro ridership and assured cooperation between the Ministry and State Governments in implementing effective mobility solutions.
Delhi Metro to Lead Future Urban Transport Projects
Shri Manohar Lal stated that the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), through its subsidiary Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL), will serve as the nodal agency on behalf of MoHUA for consultancy, construction, and turnkey projects in India and abroad. Another DMRC subsidiary will assist MoHUA in planning, coordination, and management of Mass Rapid Transit Systems (MRTS) nationwide.
Leaders Emphasize Innovation and Inclusivity
Speaking at the event, Shri Tokhan Sahu, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, described mobility as a key enabler of socio-economic growth. He highlighted the role of Transit Oriented Development (TOD) and the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) in enhancing commuter experiences and accessibility.
Shri Srinivas Katikithala, Secretary, MoHUA, underscored the importance of integrated urban planning to improve the liveability and sustainability of Indian cities. He called for greater collaboration across government agencies and private stakeholders to create inclusive, resilient transport ecosystems.
Exhibition Showcases Sustainable Mobility Innovations
Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal also inaugurated the exhibition section of the Urban Mobility India Conference 2025 and took a ride in a retrofitted electric auto converted from a CNG vehicle. The demonstration highlighted India’s growing innovation in sustainable and inclusive transport technologies.
The conference will continue with plenary sessions, expert panels, and technical presentations exploring innovative frameworks and policy pathways to advance future-ready urban mobility systems across India.