Ulaanbaatar, September 4, 2024 /MONTSAME/. The "Eco-Mobility" Campaign has been launched at the initiative of Nyambaatar Khishgee, Governor of the Capital City and Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, with the aim of reducing traffic congestion.

There are over 750,000 registered vehicles in Ulaanbaatar, with an average of around 600,000 participating in daily traffic. To accommodate these vehicles, it would be necessary to triple the existing road infrastructure. In response, the "Eco-Mobility" concept, which has become a trend in large, traffic-congested cities, encourages car-sharing, walking, cycling, and the use of public transportation. Several initiatives have already begun to create a favorable environment for citizens to join the Ecomobility Campaign.

Notably, the plan to build 27,800 square meters of pedestrian walkways this year is currently 90 percent complete. In addition to creating more parking lots and improving their management in suburban areas, 109 new public buses have been added, bringing the total to 1,187 buses in service. In October 2024, 31 new high-capacity buses will be introduced, increasing the number of public transportation routes to marketplaces and shopping centers. Approximately 80 percent of Ulaanbaatar’s roads are being repaired and upgraded, with new turns, exits, and additional side roads being constructed in certain areas.

While improving infrastructure and living conditions, Mayor Nyambaatar Khishgee emphasized the necessity of certain administrative measures: "For instance, local vehicles that remain in Ulaanbaatar for more than 48 hours will be charged a fee of MNT 5,000 per day. A full monitoring system has been implemented at checkpoints. Fifty percent of the blue-plated vehicles used by government offices in the city will be taken out of circulation, and government employees will be transported by staff buses. Additionally, one day a week, government employees will work remotely."

Furthermore, vehicles that have not paid their taxes, fines, or undergone technical inspections will not be allowed on the road, and drivers stopping at bus stops will be fined via surveillance cameras. Public and private entities are also encouraged to join the campaign to reduce traffic by using slightly used buses as staff transport, thereby preventing the simultaneous participation of multiple vehicles in traffic. While these measures may seem temporary, their long-term implementation will contribute to the development of a city culture. A consulting firm has been selected for the metro project. Work has also begun on implementing a ring road and cable car transportation system with French investment. Modern standard underpasses are being constructed and put into use at railway intersections. With collective awareness, navigating through challenging times will become easier," reported the Media and Public Relations Department of the Governor's Office of the Capital City.