Mobility as a Service: why first- and last-mile links matter in Indian cities
Mobility as a Service connects trip planning, information and transport options so passengers can move between modes with less friction.
Mobility as a Service (MaaS) aims to make a journey across buses, metro, walking and other modes easier to plan and use. Its value depends on reliable transfers, accessibility and useful information.
The idea in plain English
A passenger’s trip rarely begins at a metro gate or ends at a bus stop. First- and last-mile links include walking, feeder buses, shared transport and safe connections between modes. MaaS uses coordinated information and, in some systems, booking or payment tools to make those parts of the trip work together.
The Urban Mobility India Conference’s 2026 agenda includes integrated transport, first- and last-mile connectivity and real-time GPS-based solutions. These are planning themes, not proof that a single national MaaS platform already serves every Indian city.
What makes a system useful
Passengers need accurate arrival times, clear interchange instructions, accessible paths, dependable service and transparent fares. A polished app cannot compensate for an unsafe footpath, an unreliable feeder route or data that are not updated.
When evaluating a city project, look for measurable outcomes such as shorter transfer times, fewer missed connections, safer walking access and improved accessibility for disabled passengers.
Editorial note
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Frequently asked questions
Does MaaS mean every transport service is owned by one company?
No. It describes coordinated trip information and services; operators can remain separate.