Multi-criteria approach for the selection of alternative options for environmentally sustainable transport system in Delhi

The present study examines the impact of including various qualitative criteria for the selection of alternative transportation options in Delhi. Three alternative transport options viz. 4-stroke 2-wheelers, CNG cars and CNG buses are prioritized based on six different criteria--energy saving potential (energy), emission reduction potential (environment), cost of operation (cost), availability of technology (technology), adaptability of the option (adaptability) and barriers to implementation (barrier). Based on quantitative criteria 'energy', 'environment' and 'cost', CNG car showed more potential in contributing to environmentally sustainable transport system in Delhi followed by 4-stroke 2-wheelers and CNG buses. Qualitative criteria viz. 'technology', 'adaptability' and 'barriers' in prioritization process resulted in higher priority for 4-stroke 2-wheelers followed by CNG bus and CNG car. Integrated quantitative and qualitative criteria gave a contrasting result as compared to that of the conventional quantitative approach and qualitative approach with highest priority for CNG bus followed by 4-stroke 2-wheelers and CNG car. This could explain the reasons for failure of many potential alternative urban transport options.