The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a seismic shift in transport systems, forcing changes in public transport, in private mobility choices, and a re-examination of what were considered set knowledge in the sector.

During the pandemic, transport choices have changed as countries adapted within their capabilities and unique situations. Yet other aspects of transport, such as international aviation, and logistics are still struggling.

Though spotty and often interrupted by a resurgent virus—the recovery from the pandemic is well underway. Many governments have stated their desire to “build forward better,” and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is ready to support this throughout its operations in transport.

There are necessities that need to be met, but also new opportunities for transport—in terms of human mobility, urban planning, the strengthening of logistics, and integration across borders. Many of the best lessons of the pandemic—the adaptability and innovation that arose during those trying times—can be brought forward, and contribute to the acceleration of the development of sustainable and decarbonized transport in Asia and the Pacific region.

The Asia and the Pacific Transport Forum, "Accelerating Transformative and Decarbonized Transport," will feature 3 days of dedicated discussions on numerous transport topics, including pathways to transport decarbonization, supporting safe and inclusive transport development, new and innovative uses for data and digital solutions in the sector, and investing in quality transport infrastructure, among other topics.

The forum is open to: 

• Key decision makers of governmental urban transport organizations
• Infrastructure / asset managers of urban transport systems
• Urban transport sector specialists, focused on technical or policy issues
• Policy makers, regulators, and managers from the public and private sectors
• Representatives and experts in urban transport related technologies
• Development and knowledge partners working on urban transport issues.

Pre-event sessions

The Transport Forum has pre-events scheduled on 29 March–1 April.

There will be webinars focusing on the Asian transport outlook, the tools needed to decarbonize and manage roads, road safety, sustainable urban mobility, e-mobility, and rail system management.