Dutch Perspective at MoveInSync Mobility Symposium in Bengaluru

How can cities build mobility systems that are resilient, sustainable and fit for the future? This question was at the heart of MoveInSync’s third Mobility Symposium, held on 8 October 2026 at the Taj West End in Bengaluru. Under the theme “Resilient Mobility: Readying India’s Cities for an Uncertain World,” the symposium brought together policymakers, city leaders, planners, industry representatives and mobility experts to discuss how cities can respond to challenges ranging from climate impacts to congestion and changing travel needs.

The Dutch Cycling Embassy supported the event by facilitating the participation of Jaap Veerman, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for South India, as a keynote speaker. His contribution brought a Dutch perspective to the discussion on how cities can rethink mobility and create systems that make walking, cycling and public transport integral parts of urban life.

Drawing on the Netherlands’ own mobility transition, Veerman reflected on the transformation from a car-oriented system towards one in which cycling and other sustainable modes have become central to everyday mobility. He highlighted the role of the 1973 oil crisis as an important catalyst in this transition, illustrating how major disruptions can also create opportunities to rethink established mobility choices.

For the Dutch Cycling Embassy, facilitating this exchange is an important part of connecting Dutch knowledge and experience with international mobility challenges. The symposium provided a valuable platform for dialogue between international and local perspectives. Alongside the Dutch contribution, speakers and participants discussed public transport, active mobility, shared mobility and the role of employers in shaping how people travel to work. MoveInSync’s reflections following the event highlighted a strong focus on making shared and public transport the preferred choice for everyday journeys, as well as on improving walking infrastructure in Indian cities.

The Dutch Cycling Embassy is pleased to have facilitated this exchange and to contribute to continued dialogue between Dutch and Indian cities on the future of sustainable urban mobility.