Transport

ADB and the Transport Sector
Updated: 20 January 2010

ADB's operations in the transport sector promote economic growth and sustainable increases in welfare in its developing member countries by enhancing access to market opportunities, social services, goods, and information.

ADB focuses its interventions in the transport sector on critical areas such as roads and highways, urban transport systems, railways, ports and waterways, and civil aviation, leveraging its resources through cofinancing and encouraging coordinated interventions with other donors.

In 2007, a specially commissioned independent panel of eminent persons concluded that "Physical connectivity…particularly robust transport and communication links are essential for moving goods, services and people across countries," thus highlighting the need for more investments for transport infrastructure.

Prompted by the rapid growth in transport demand in the region, ADB has expanded its role and focus in transport, making it the fastest growing sector among ADB's operations.

Asia's Transport Challenge

44 million people are being added to Asia's urban population every year, equivalent to 120,000 people a day, placing considerable strain on urban mobility Motor vehicle fleets are growing rapidly, doubling every 5 to 7 years. Emerging Asian countries are expected to add 35 million vehicles, excluding 2- and 3-wheelers, between 2006 and 2009 Energy use for transport to 2025 is expected to increase dramatically - with significant implications for energy demand, pollution (global and local) and energy security across the region Road accidents cause an estimated 1.18 million deaths and millions of injuries annually. About 60% of these occur in Asian countries. Accident costs in ASEAN countries alone are estimated at $15 billion each year