A Historic City Faces Pressures to Modernize Its Mobility Infrastructure

Key Metrics:

1. Urban Population: Jhansi’s urban population has grown to 574,000 in 2021, a 22% increase from the previous decade (Census of India).
2. Vehicle Density: Over 250,000 registered vehicles as of 2024, a 35% rise in the last five years (Uttar Pradesh Transport Department).
3. Public Transport Penetration: Only 20% of residents rely on public transport, while 60% use private vehicles (Jhansi Municipal Corporation Survey, 2024).
4. Road Infrastructure: Jhansi has 12,000 km of road network, but 30% is classified as in need of repair or upgrading (Public Works Department, Uttar Pradesh).

Jhansi, 2025 – A city steeped in history and home to iconic landmarks such as the Jhansi Fort, Jhansi has become a vital urban hub in Uttar Pradesh. However, with rapid urbanization and increasing population, the city’s transportation infrastructure is under strain. Rising vehicle density, insufficient public transport, and inadequate road maintenance raise critical questions about whether Jhansi is prepared for sustained growth. Are its transportation policies forward-thinking, or is the city lagging in meeting modern demands?

Current Transportation Landscape

Jhansi’s transportation ecosystem is heavily reliant on private vehicles and informal transport modes. The Uttar Pradesh Transport Department reports over 250,000 registered vehicles in the city, contributing to traffic congestion, pollution, and road wear.

Public transport, primarily consisting of buses and auto-rickshaws, serves only 20% of the population. A Jhansi Municipal Corporation Survey (2024) revealed that 60% of residents depend on private vehicles, while 15% rely on non-motorized transport like bicycles or walking.

The city’s strategic location as part of the North-South and East-West rail corridors adds to its importance as a transit hub, with Jhansi Junction handling over 100,000 passengers daily, according to the Indian Railways.

Key Challenges

1. Traffic Congestion: A 2024 study by the Uttar Pradesh Traffic Police found that peak-hour traffic speeds in Jhansi have dropped to 20 km/h in major corridors like Sipri Road and Shivpuri Road due to rising vehicle density.
2. Road Conditions: The Public Works Department (PWD) reports that 30% of Jhansi’s road network is in poor condition, with potholes and inadequate drainage causing safety and mobility issues.
3. Lack of Public Transport Infrastructure: With only 50 government-operated buses serving the city, public transport remains underdeveloped, forcing residents to rely on costlier and less sustainable private modes.
4. Pollution and Emissions: Vehicle emissions contribute to 40% of Jhansi’s air pollution, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safe limits on 150 days annually, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Voices from the Ground

Residents express growing frustration with the city’s transportation woes. “Traffic jams and bad roads are part of our daily struggle. It takes twice the time to travel short distances,” says Shyam Gupta, a resident of Civil Lines. Meanwhile, college student Aarti Sharma highlights safety concerns: “Walking or cycling is risky here because the roads aren’t pedestrian-friendly.”

Public transport users also face challenges. “Buses are overcrowded and infrequent. We need better options,” says Mukesh Kumar, who commutes daily for work.

Government and Institutional Efforts

To address these challenges, several initiatives have been launched:

1. Smart City Mission Projects: Under the Jhansi Smart City Mission, ₹200 crore has been allocated for road upgrades, smart traffic systems, and public transport enhancements.
2. E-Bus Initiative: The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) introduced 10 electric buses in Jhansi in 2024, aiming to reduce emissions and improve urban mobility.
3. Railway Modernization: Indian Railways is investing in Jhansi Junction’s expansion, adding new platforms and modernizing amenities to handle increased passenger traffic.
4. Road Rehabilitation Plan: The Public Works Department has identified 100 km of priority roads for immediate repairs and widening, with ₹50 crore allocated in the 2024-25 state budget.

Recommendations for Sustainable Growth

To ensure Jhansi’s transportation system can support its growth, experts suggest the following measures:

1. Expand Public Transport: Increase the number of buses and introduce mass rapid transit options like metro-lite or bus rapid transit (BRT) systems.
2. Improve Road Infrastructure: Prioritize road repairs and invest in pedestrian and cycling-friendly infrastructure to promote sustainable mobility.
3. Encourage Non-Motorized Transport: Develop safe and dedicated lanes for bicycles and pedestrians to reduce reliance on motor vehicles.
4. Digital Traffic Management: Implement smart traffic signals and real-time monitoring systems to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.
5. Promote Green Transport: Expand the fleet of electric buses and incentivize electric vehicle adoption among residents.

The Road Ahead

Jhansi’s transportation challenges are a reflection of its rapid urbanization and growing population. While the city has taken steps toward modernization through the Smart City Mission and infrastructure investments, its success will depend on sustained efforts, efficient implementation, and community engagement. The question remains: Can Jhansi build a transportation system that balances growth with sustainability, or will it remain stuck in the slow lane of progress?