Electric bus service proposed for tricity
In a major push towards sustainable urban mobility, a new network of electric buses is set to connect Chandigarh, Panchkula and Mohali. The initiative is aimed at providing a low-frequency and eco-friendly public transportation option across the tricity area. The Punjab Government has presented this cluster-based public transportation proposal to the Central Government, highlighting the need for an interconnected electric bus network to enhance urban transport service.
The plan was proposed during a recent review meeting between Punjab government officials and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. During his visit to Chandigarh, Khattar was briefed on the eco-friendly transport system, and he assured that the Centre was committed to addressing the region’s transportation needs.
If approved, this electric bus network will link areas such as Mohali, Chandigarh, Panchkula, Zirakpur, Dera Bassi, Kharar, Kurali, New Chandigarh and Kalka, creating a seamless transportation exclusively powered by electric buses.
CTU seeks 100 e-vehicles
As part of this green initiative, the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) has requested the Central Government for 100 additional electric buses to replace its aging diesel fleet. At present, CTU operates 80 electric buses, each averaging 180-200 km per day. With the addition of 100 new buses, the electric fleet could be expanded to cover more routes across the tricity, while diesel buses would be gradually phased out from local routes. The CTU’s request was presented to Khattar during his visit to the city.
Central scheme
The initiative falls within the ambit of the PM E-Bus Service, a Central Government scheme designed to boost the number of electric buses in urban areas. The programme, operational in 169 cities under the public-private partnership (PPP) model and in 181 cities through the Green Urban Mobility Initiative, aimed at fostering clean fuel-based public transport while creating jobs. The PM E-Bus Service will connect various parts of the tricity and nearby towns, providing a cleaner and greener alternative to commuters.
