Infrastructure policies can change user habits: Mark Gorton

If the government builds flyovers, people will vroom past in their vehicles. But, if it focuses on providing cycle tracks and pedestrian space, they will cultivate habits to use the infrastructure. This observation was shared by Mark Gorton, New York-based information technology and finance entrepreneur, in his lecture at National Institute of Design (NID).

Along with being an entrepreneur, Gorton is a philanthropist and advocate for alternative transportation and livable streets. In his lecture titled "Rethinking the automobile: Lessons from 100 years of urban experience with automobile", he cited examples of New York and other cities in the world, stating multiple problems.

During the lecture organized by NID and Institute of Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP), he said that India was repeating the mistake committed by the US and China as far as policies of private vehicles were concerned.

Talking to the students, Gorton emphasised the need for taking private vehicles off the road, and design space for public utility. He said that prioritising traffic for street design was a mistake. "Traffic damages human living, environment and prevents children from using open space. Now, as streets are overflowing with private vehicles, kids are compelled to remain indoors. Parents have to accompany kids wherever they go. Reducing the use of private automobiles will free street space for kids to play, and other activities," he said.

He also said that if the money that is spent on private automobiles and related infrastructure is saved, the government will have a lot of money to spend on sectors like education.