Balancing cleaner mobility adoption with operational efficiency and commercial viability
Road transport in India is undergoing one of its biggest transformations, driven by better infrastructure, evolving vehicle technologies and the growing push towards cleaner mobility. According to Mr. Jigar R Somaiya, Director, Rajesh Roadlines Pvt. Ltd., the industry’s progress towards 2030 will depend not only on new vehicle technologies but also on the supporting ecosystem that enables fleets to operate efficiently and profitably.
“Cleaner mobility will succeed only when infrastructure, economics and operational practicality evolve together,” said Mr. Somaiya.
Infrastructure and Alternative Fuels Will Shape Growth
Mr. Somaiya believes India’s logistics industry is moving beyond a diesel-only ecosystem, with CNG, LNG and electric vehicles becoming an integral part of fleet planning. However, the pace of adoption will depend largely on the availability of charging stations, LNG and CNG infrastructure, reliable service networks and well-trained drivers.
He also highlighted the significant improvements in operational efficiency over the past few years. Initiatives such as GST, FASTag and new highway corridors have substantially reduced turnaround times by minimising delays at toll plazas and checkpoints. Although vehicle acquisition costs have increased, better fuel efficiency and higher daily vehicle utilisation have helped improve operating economics, allowing fleets to cover more kilometres and maximise productivity.
Responsible Fleet Growth for 2030
Rajesh Roadlines has focused on staying ahead of industry trends through the early adoption of cleaner technologies. Since 2021, the company has inducted CNG-powered vehicles into its fleet, with 14 of its 125 trucks currently operating on CNG and further expansion planned.
While the company is equally optimistic about electric vehicles, Mr. Somaiya believes wider adoption will depend on improvements in driving range, charging infrastructure and total cost of ownership. Until these factors become commercially viable, the company will continue evaluating the technology while remaining prepared for a timely transition.
“Our goal is to grow responsibly, adopt cleaner fuel technologies when they make commercial sense, and continue improving turnaround times as India’s transport infrastructure evolves,” shared Mr. Somaiya.
Looking ahead to 2030, Rajesh Roadlines aims to strengthen its fleet with sustainable technologies while maintaining operational discipline and customer-focused service. For the company, long-term success will come from balancing innovation with practical business decisions, ensuring every investment delivers value to both customers and fleet operations.
“Cleaner mobility will succeed only when infrastructure, economics and operational practicality evolve together.”