Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has shared the highlights of its community initiatives in India on World Sustainable Transport Day.
Under its CSR programme, Alstom has partnered with NSRCEL, the start-up hub and incubation centre at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB), to launch the ‘Sustainable Mobility Incubation Program.' Two start-up cohorts incubated through this initiative have collectively reduced carbon emissions by over 125 million kilograms—equivalent to removing more than 27,000 diesel cars from Indian roads for a year.
Another impactful initiative, the ‘Low Emission Access to Public Transport (LEAP)' project, supported by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) and implemented by WRI India, directly addresses air pollution while improving access to public transport. The project has deployed e-autorickshaws around key metro stations in Bengaluru, completing 30,000 km of travel in just six months. The initiative, operated by MetroRide, an AI-powered EV ride-hailing service, has also trained and employed female drivers, boosting representation of women in the transport workforce.
Speaking about the impact of these initiatives, Olivier Loison, Managing Director of Alstom India, said: "It is heartening to see our community initiatives targeted at sustainable mobility already delivering the desired impact and contributing to cleaner air in our cities. This is a step forward in our commitment to reshaping India's transportation landscape and supporting the country's Sustainable Development Goals."
Alstom's collaboration with NSRCEL goes beyond transportation solutions, aiming to redefine urban mobility in India. This programme supports early-stage start-ups focused on green transport innovations and long-term sustainability. To date, it has achieved remarkable milestones, including:
- Preventing over 125 million kilograms of carbon emissions, supporting India's net-zero ambitions.
-Generating 164 jobs in the sustainability sector.
- Securing $32 million in funding and an additional $9 million in grants for participating ventures.
Additionally, the programme has driven measurable progress for start-ups:
- 78.4 per cent enhanced their innovation in sustainable transport solutions.
- 86 per cent optimised business models for growth while minimising environmental impact.
- 80 per cent increased agility to address market shifts in alternative fuels and sustainable transport.
Low Emission Access to Public Transport (LEAP):
The LEAP project has improved metro accessibility in Bengaluru, enhanced air quality, and created jobs. Key achievements of the six-month pilot phase include:
- Training and employing 30 female drivers, with 21 already onboarded, earning a sustainable guaranteed minimum income.
- Completing 30,000 km of e-autorickshaw travel, offering eco-friendly last-mile connectivity.
- Increasing inclusivity in public transport, with 40 per cent of commuters served under LEAP being women.