An analysis of the important factors that influence the NMT adaptability in New Delhi and Chandigarh

• Study assesses key factors shaping NMT use in Delhi and Chandigarh. • NMT acceptability varies with demographics and transport access. • Governance history strongly influences commuters’ modal choices. • EFA identifies Planning, Infrastructure, Convenience, Environment, Attractiveness. This study examines the key factors that influence the implementation of NMT in the urban areas of Delhi and Chandigarh. The study estimates the acceptability index of NMT among commuters in New Delhi and Chandigarh, based on specific variables identified through a literature review. The acceptability levels for NMT usage are highly sensitive to variations in local demographic characteristics, such as age, gender, education status, and the availability of public transport infrastructure. The analysis shows that, apart from unique demographic variables, past city governance models under successive governments also play a pivotal role in shaping commuters’ modal choices. Exploratory Factor Analysis is also used to identify key factors in the successful implementation of NMT projects. The identified factors are Planning, Infrastructure, Convenience, Environment, and Attractiveness based on the commuters’ responses from the two cities. The paper discusses in detail the significance of the variables loaded under each factor, which may help transport planners effectuate a voluntary and renewed emphasis on NMT among urban commuters and pave the way for sustainable transportation alternatives in the urban hotspots of modern cities.