India’s New Integrated Transport Authority Faces Power and Data Hurdles
India has created the Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority to coordinate transport planning, but experts say its success depends on real authority, quality data and demand alignment.
On October 6 the Union Cabinet gave the green light to the Integrated Transport and Logistics Authority (ITLA), tasked with drafting a decade-long National Transport Master Plan and vetting central projects over ₹500 crore. Officials note that ministries often pursue isolated expansions, leading to overlapping or poorly linked assets such as freight terminals lacking road access. Scholars like Jagan Shah argue the authority must have veto power and independence to influence decisions, while also coordinating with state and local agencies.
A proposed National Transport Data Repository would pull information from GST e-way bills, FASTag, VAHAN and traffic systems, but its usefulness hinges on regular updates and open access. Industry voices, including Pawan Mulukutla of WRI India, urge inclusion of private sector experts and AI-based modelling to match investments with actual travel patterns. Without these safeguards, the ITLA risks becoming another silo rather than a unifying planner.
Why it matters
Effective coordination could prevent costly, underused projects and improve mobility across India.
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