Rapid urbanization, coupled with an unprecedented growth in personal motorized transport, is strangling the economic vitality of many Asian cities. Cities across the region are the engines of economic growth. Unless urgent action is taken to ensure effective movement of people and goods, continued economic growth will suffer and along with it the ability of the growing number of urban poor to lift themselves out of poverty.

Traditional approaches to accommodate the ever increasing number of private vehicles are not sustainable in the dense urban areas and mega cities of the region. Business-as-usual is not a viable option. Alternate approaches must be delivered that place an emphasis on equitable and inclusive mobility and accessibility.

Congestion, local pollution, traffic accidents, noise, and GHG emissions are deteriorating the quality of life in many urban areas and it is the marginalized society that suffers the most. The urban poor are the most exposed to the negative externalities of transport, living in areas with poor or no affordable transport services and often traveling by foot, thus being exposed to the health risks of local pollution and suffering the greatest from road accidents. Urban mobility requires a realigned focus on land development that minimizes the need to travel; public transport and non-motorized transport that makes the most efficient use of limited space; and fiscal and physical restraints for private vehicles.