Answer

India’s freight sector, contributing around 13.5% of total GHG emissions, is heavily reliant on carbon-intensive road transport. Decarbonising it is vital to achieve the net-zero target by 2070 and reduce fuel dependency, but certainly it faces few challenges.

Role of  LNG Helps in Reducing Emissions

• Lower Carbon Emissions: LNG emits up to 25% less CO₂ than diesel trucks. It also produces 85% fewer NOx and almost no SOx or particulate matter, making it cleaner for long-haul freight.
• Cleaner Long-Haul Freight: LNG trucks are suitable for interstate freight movement, especially over long distances where battery-powered EVs are not yet viable.
  For example: India plans to convert one-third of its heavy truck fleet to LNG within 5–7 years to cut diesel dependency.
• Maritime Emission Reduction: LNG can power coastal and inland vessels, which aligns with India’s goal to triple cargo movement through waterways by 2030.
  For example: Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has piloted LNG vessels on National Waterway-1 (Ganga River).
• Global Alignment: LNG adoption aligns with IMO’s target to cut global shipping emissions by 50% by 2050, positioning India as a responsible maritime player.
  

Role of EVs in Reducing Emissions

• Zero Tailpipe Emissions: EVs release no CO₂, NOx, or PM at the point of use, making them ideal for urban freight and last-mile connectivity, where air pollution is severe.
  For example: The Delhi government uses electric trucks for garbage collection to reduce emissions in high-density areas.
• High Efficiency: Electric drivetrains convert over 85% of energy into movement, compared to about 40% in diesel engines, leading to lower overall energy use and emissions.
• Pilot Projects in India: The Delhi–Jaipur electric highway pilot by the Ministry of Road Transport is testing overhead electric wires for trucks, aiming to cut emissions drastically for freight corridors.
• Urban Freight Transformation: Companies like Amazon and Flipkart have introduced electric delivery fleets in cities, helping reduce urban logistics emissions.
  For example: Flipkart has successfully deployed 10,000 EVs in its delivery fleet to meet its sustainability goals.

Challenges in widespread adoption

Way forward

• Strengthen Infrastructure Backbone: Expand LNG refuelling stations along national freight corridors and coastal routes through public-private partnerships.
  For example: Establish “green freight corridors” with combined LNG and EV infrastructure under the Gati Shakti Mission.
• Financial Incentives and Subsidy Reform: Provide Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and capital subsidies for LNG truck acquisition and refuelling stations.
  For example: Extend FAME-II and PLI schemes to include heavy-duty electric trucks and battery logistics vehicles.
• Technology & R&D Support: Promote indigenous manufacturing of LNG engines and high-capacity EV batteries to reduce import dependency.
  For example: Partner with IITs and NITI Aayog for freight-specific EV R&D and testing frameworks.
•  Skilling and Safety Ecosystem: Set up training programs for LNG truck operators, mechanics, and EV technicians in partnership with Skill India.
  For example: Develop national safety codes and emergency protocols for LNG transport and EV charging systems.
• Green Logistics Policy Integration: Integrate LNG and EV adoption targets within India’s National Logistics Policy (2022) and PM Gati Shakti for coordinated execution.

Decarbonising India’s freight transportation is not just an environmental imperative but a strategic move towards energy security, economic efficiency, and sustainable development. By accelerating the adoption of alternative fuels, we can build a resilient and future-ready logistics ecosystem aligned with its climate and developmental goals.

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