India establishes unified transport authority to streamline infrastructure planning

India has set up a unified transport authority to serve as the nodal agency for integrated transport and logistics planning across the nation. The India Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA) will function as the apex coordinating body, bringing together functions previously scattered across multiple departments and agencies.

The authority will be responsible for comprehensive transport and logistics planning at the national level, addressing the fragmented approach that has characterised infrastructure development in the sector. By consolidating planning functions, the ITLA aims to ensure better coordination between different modes of transport and reduce duplication of efforts.

Among its core responsibilities, the authority will conduct research, undertake project appraisal, and monitor implementation of transport initiatives. The ITLA will also provide policy support to the government and maintain data analytics capabilities to inform decision-making on infrastructure projects.

The establishment of the unified authority comes as India seeks to modernise its transport infrastructure and improve logistics efficiency across the economy. Integrated planning is expected to facilitate better resource allocation and more cohesive development of the country's transport networks, benefiting both commerce and passenger mobility.