(2016) pointed out. While higher digitalisation and use of autonomous vehicles can help in avoiding risky situations, it also means that stalking and illegal activities like prostitution become easier. The study by Kumari and Singh(2019) assessed the impact of e-mobility and apps on female safety in public transport. The field study was conducted in the Munirka area of South Delhi. In-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted at various bus stops in Munirka. Inputs were also taken from a workshop conducted for school going girls, and from one focus group discussion. The parameters for selection were age and income levels. Participating women commuters were classified in age brackets of—below 18 years of age, 18-40 years, 40-60 years, and 60 years and above. Input data was analysed to assess technological and policy inputs for technology developers and policymakers. Most of the respondents were aware of the environmental benefits of electric vehicles. The introduction of'e-rickshaws'(electric three-wheelers) has enhanced their mobility. Due to its smaller size, with standing impossible and direct contact with the driver, women felt more comfortable in e­rickshaws and made more frequent rides, and in less time(Mahadevia et al., 2018; Mohanty and Kotak, 2017). one focus group discussion. The parameters for Some of the most important IT features desired by the respondents are'real-time information' and CCTV cameras in the e-vehicles in order to make women passengers feel safer. The respondents recommended that colour codes be added to apps/ websites for commuters who are illiterate. Respondents with smartphones were aware of the government's'Himmat' app through which mobile police vans can be contacted in case of harassment. However, economically less privileged women commuters were not aware of this app, which shows that awareness campaigns have somehow missed this social group of women. At the time of study, public transport had no women drivers and it was hoped that the design of e-vehicles, could be made suitable for both men and women to drive. This would encourage women to drive public transport. in 2.5 Neglected geographical areas When discussing social equity, it is also important to recognise that social groups are also geographically grouped. There is a risk that commercial initiatives that develop their transport services primarily based on digital infrastructure(such as ride-sourcing platforms) shun certain neighbourhoods because they are not profitable 1,750 1,500 Smartphone users in millions 1,250 1,000 500 250 2022 0 931.3 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034 2035 2036 2037 2038 2039 2040 Figure 1: Growth of smartphones in India(since 2010 and projected until 2040) Smart mobility in India from an equity perspective 9