About Urban Congestion and Health Risks

Urban congestion has become a defining feature of daily life in many cities. In regions like New Delhi, commuters face important delays. A recent survey revealed that car speeds are often slower than those of cyclists. This shift in perception marks how congestion is now accepted as a norm rather than an inconvenience.

Commuter Perspectives on Travel Time

The Centre for Science and Environment surveyed car commuters in Delhi. Respondents reported travel times ranging from 1.5 to 8 minutes per kilometre, averaging 2.79 minutes per kilometre. This translates to an average speed of 21.5 km/h, which is lower than the average cycling speed. The survey focused on peak-hour travel, where delays are most pronounced.

Psychological Influences on Perception

The “peak-end rule” affects how commuters recall their experiences. People often remember the most frustrating moments during their journeys. This bias skews their perception of overall travel times. As a result, peak-hour delays dominate their memories.

Travel Time Index and Planning Time Index

Two indices help quantify travel reliability – the Travel Time Index (TTI) and the Planning Time Index (PTI). TTI measures the extra time needed during peak hours. PTI indicates the time buffer required for on-time arrivals. For instance, a PTI of 2 means commuters should plan for double the free-flow time to arrive on time 95% of the time.

Evening Congestion Patterns

Evening traffic poses unique challenges. Secondary trips, such as errands and social visits, increase congestion. During peak evening hours, the PTI can reach 7.7, indicating that a 10-minute journey may take 27 minutes. This requires commuters to leave earlier.

Environmental and Economic Implications

The acceptance of congestion obscures the environmental and economic costs associated with it. Increased reliance on personal vehicles contributes to pollution. This trend impedes the shift towards public transport and cleaner alternatives.

Health Risks Associated with Air Pollution

Air pollution poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can lead to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases. Studies show that exposure can trigger acute events, especially in the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Impact

Air pollutants induce oxidative stress, damaging blood vessels and increasing cardiovascular disease risk. They can also disrupt normal heart functions, leading to irregular rhythms and elevated blood pressure. Furthermore, altered blood composition can increase clot formation risks.

Mitigating Air Pollution Risks

Addressing air quality is essential for public health. Governments are urged to implement stricter emissions regulations and promote public transport. Individuals can take steps like staying indoors during poor air quality days and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of urban congestion on economic productivity in major cities.
2. Point out the relationship between air pollution and public health, providing suitable examples from recent studies.
3. Estimate the effectiveness of public transportation in reducing urban congestion and air pollution.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the psychological factors influencing commuter behaviour in congested urban areas.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of urban congestion on economic productivity in major cities.

1. Urban congestion leads to increased travel times, resulting in lost productivity for commuters and businesses.
2. Frequent delays can discourage business investments and affect the overall economic growth of a city.
3. Higher congestion often correlates with increased fuel consumption, raising costs for both individuals and companies.
4. Increased traffic can lead to greater wear and tear on infrastructure, requiring costly repairs and maintenance.
5. Efforts to alleviate congestion, such as improved public transport, can enhance productivity by reducing travel times.

2. Point out the relationship between air pollution and public health, providing suitable examples from recent studies.

1. Air pollution is linked to increased incidence of cardiovascular diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations.
2. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure is associated with systemic inflammation, leading to conditions like atherosclerosis.
3. Research indicates that short-term exposure to air pollutants can trigger acute cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks.
4. Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible due to their developing lungs and pre-existing health conditions.
5. Recent studies highlight the correlation between high pollution levels and increased hospital admissions for heart-related issues.

3. Estimate the effectiveness of public transportation in reducing urban congestion and air pollution.

1. Public transportation reduces the number of individual vehicles on the road, alleviating congestion during peak hours.
2. Efficient public transport systems can lower overall emissions per capita, contributing to better air quality.
3. High ridership rates in cities with robust public transport correlate with reduced traffic congestion and pollution levels.
4. Investment in public transit infrastructure can lead to long-term economic benefits and improved urban mobility.
5. Examples of successful public transport systems, like those in Tokyo or London, demonstrate important reductions in congestion and pollution.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the psychological factors influencing commuter behaviour in congested urban areas.

1. The “peak-end rule” influences how commuters recall their travel experiences, often emphasizing frustrating moments.
2. Commuters may develop a tolerance for congestion, leading to normalized expectations of delays in their daily routines.
3. Social norms and peer behavior can influence transport choices, with individuals often opting for personal vehicles despite congestion.
4. Perceptions of safety and comfort in public transport can deter commuters from using these alternatives during peak hours.
5. Examples include the tendency for commuters to prefer driving over public transport due to perceived reliability issues, despite the latter being more efficient.