About Samvad 2025

PURVCA Foundation hosted the first edition of PURVCA Samvad 2025 – Conversations for Sustainable Urban Futures at the NEDFi Auditorium in Guwahati on 7th November 2025, Friday. 

The day-long event brought together government officials, urban planners, researchers, citizens, students and civil society members to discuss how Guwahati can build a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive transport system. 

The event saw about 250 people attend throughout the day.

The theme for Samvad 2025 was 'Sustainable Urban Mobility – Public Transport, Walking & Cycling'. 

Urban mobility is a core challenge for North Eastern cities. Promoting public transport, cycling, and walking reduces emissions, congestion, and road risks. Inclusive mobility ensures access for all sections of society.

The event opened with lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tributes to Sri. Zubeen Garg, Sri. Dipak Sarma and Syed Sadulla.

The agenda was structured as a full-day dialogue, moving from broad discussions to practical ideas. The morning sessions explored the current state of Guwahati’s transport system and opportunities for improvement. Later panels focused on active mobility, public transport modernisation, and mobility justice, especially from the perspective of women commuters. Afternoon sessions featured spotlight talks on last-mile connectivity, digital technologies for transport management, and inclusive street design. 

Keynote Speaker

Spotlight Session Speakers

Address by Partner Organisation & Elected Representatives

Panel Discussion 1

Topic: Making Public Transportation Inclusive: Strengthening Bus-Based Systems

Panel Discussion 2

Topic: Walking and Cycling for Mobility Justice: Building Equitable and Safe Streets 

The event was supported by Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, Numaligarh Refinery Limited, Transitions Research, The Urban Lab (TUL) Foundation, Assam Climate Change Management Society, Assam Pollution Control Board and BYCS India Foundation. 

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the PURVCA Foundation’s new research report titled “Women On Board: Perceptions, Barriers, and Opportunities for Inclusive Mobility in Guwahati.” The study surveyed nearly 600 women across all 60 municipal wards of the city to understand their experiences with bus-based public transport.

There was a sizeable number of students from various Colleges and Universities around Guwahati which should their keen interest in urban mobility issues.

The discussions at PURVCA Samvad 2025 reflected a shared belief that improving mobility in Guwahati is not only a transport issue but also a matter of social inclusion and urban equity. As participants noted, safer and more reliable public transport can enhance access to education and employment, particularly for women, and help the city progress towards a sustainable and climate-ready future.