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Chapter I: Title and Definitions

Preamble​

  • WHEREAS, it is expedient to provide for the wellness of citizens, including their health, safety, and social wellbeing, through sustainable and equitable mobility solutions;

  • WHEREAS, current transportation systems often prioritize private automobiles, resulting in air pollution, traffic congestion, and greenhouse gas emissions, which adversely affect the environment and public health;

  • WHEREAS, active modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transit offer a range of benefits, including improved physical and mental health, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced social connectivity;

  • WHEREAS, active modes of transportation such as walking, cycling provide affordable mobility, reduce demand for private motorized transport and tackle climate change.

  • WHEREAS, the Atmanirbhar Bharath Cycle Bill Bill is a legislative proposal that seeks to promote active transportation and reduce reliance on private automobiles, by investing in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, expanding public transit networks, and implementing policies that encourage active modes of transportation.

  • WHEREAS, the Atmanirbhar Bharath Cycle Bill Bill is decisive legislative proposal that aims to unlock the national potential of Active Mobility to reduce transportation emissions and support sustainable development and a massive scaling up of capacity to plan, design, build, maintain, operate and promote Active Mobility infrastructure and Systems in India.

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED & ENACTED to commit to supporting the ABC Bill, which represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all citizens as follows :

Short title and commencement:​

  • (a) This bill may be called the ABC Bill or the Atmanirbhar Bharath Cycle Bill, 2023.
  • (b) It shall come into force on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
  • (c) Atmanirbhar Bharath Cycle Bill, 2023 is a bill to create an ecosystem for enabling active mobility including funding, commissionerate for active mobility and mission for building the movement.

Definitions:​

  • (a) "Active mobility" means non-motorized modes of transportation, including cycling and walking.
  • (b) "Commissionerate for Active Mobility" means the office of the government responsible for the implementation of this bill.
  • (c) "Mission for Building the Movement" means the initiative launched under this bill to promote active mobility in India.

BE it enacted by Parliament in the .... of the Republic of India as follows: -

DEFINITIONS​

  • (a) “Active Mobility” means human-powered transportation modes, including walking, cycling, and other non-motorized modes.
  • (b) “Commissionerate for Active Mobility” means the government department responsible for the promotion, regulation and development of Active Mobility in the country.
  • (c) “Mission for Building the Movement” means a national level initiative aimed at creating awareness, promoting the use of Active Mobility, and building the infrastructure required to support it.
  • (d) “Funding” means financial resources made available by the government or any other body for the promotion, regulation and development of Active Mobility in the country.

OBJECTIVES OF THE ACT​

The objectives of this Act are as follows:-

  • (a) To create an ecosystem for enabling Active Mobility in the country.
  • (b) Clean & Green Environment: The ABC Bill aims to promote a clean and green environment by reducing air pollution, noise pollution, and carbon emissions associated with motorized transport. This can lead to a healthier and more sustainable environment for current and future generations.
  • (c) Transform Transportation: The ABC Bill seeks to transform the transportation sector by prioritizing active modes of transportation over motorized modes. This can help reduce congestion, increase mobility options for all citizens, and decrease dependence on fossil fuels, resulting in a more sustainable and efficient transportation system.
  • (d) Catalyse Health: The ABC Bill aims to improve public health by promoting physical activity through active modes of transportation such as walking and cycling. This can lead to a reduction in non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, resulting in a healthier population.
  • (e) Road Safety : To provide a safe and comfortable environment for people to use Active Mobility - make walking and cycling safe, routine and enjoyable.
  • (f) Active Mobility Governance: To establish a framework for funding and implementing Active Mobility projects,by establishing a Commissionerate for Active Mobility responsible for the promotion, regulation, and development of Active Mobility in the country. Kickstart a Mission for Building the Movement of Active Mobility - to create awareness, promote the use of Active Mobility, and build the infrastructure required to support it.
  • (i) Prosperous Economy: The ABC Bill can contribute to a more prosperous economy by supporting the growth of "make in india" manufacturing, particularly in the bicycle and electric vehicle sectors. By supporting startups and investing in industry 4.0 technologies, the bill seeks to ensure that the manufacturing sector remains competitive and sustainable in the long-term. The Active Mobility Economy is around 57 Billion Globally - India can be
  • (j) Social Equity: The ABC Bill aims to promote social equity by ensuring that all citizens have access to safe, affordable, and accessible transportation options. This includes low-income households, persons with disabilities, women, and other marginalized groups who often face barriers to accessing transportation. By prioritizing active mobility, policymakers can promote greater social inclusion and reduce transportation-related inequalities.