​The action plan emphasizes strategies that aim to facilitate the movement of goods while minimizing negative effects on air quality, noise levels, public health, road safety, and traffic congestion, as well as reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This marks the first instance of an Indian city developing low-carbon approaches specifically for urban freight. The plan serves a dual objective: enabling policymakers to cut GHG emissions and related externalities from the freight sector, while also enhancing its overall efficiency. To develop targeted measures, it was essential to understand the priorities of different stakeholders involved in the sector.

Urban freight plays a vital role in the daily operations of a city by ensuring the supply of essential goods to residents and businesses—including food, fast-moving consumer goods, e-commerce packages, and construction materials. Despite its importance, urban freight transport contributes significantly to environmental degradation and social challenges, affecting quality of life in cities. Globally, freight vehicles account for up to 25% of urban traffic, occupy around 40% of motorized road space, and are responsible for as much as 40% of carbon dioxide emissions linked to urban transport.