Telangana to Roll Out Nearly 1,000 Electric Buses in Major Push for Sustainable Transport
As part of Telangana’s ongoing commitment to promoting a greener environment and reducing pollution, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has placed an order for 1,000 new electric buses. This significant move aims to modernize the state’s public transportation system and contribute to cleaner air quality across the region. The introduction of these electric buses will occur gradually, with the buses being deployed in stages. The TGSRTC currently operates its electric bus fleet under the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model, a system designed to ensure cost efficiency and sustainability.
Hyderabad to Benefit from 500 New Electric Buses
Out of the total 1,000 electric buses ordered, Hyderabad, the state’s bustling capital, is set to receive 500. These buses will play a crucial role in enhancing urban mobility while minimizing the environmental impact of the city’s transportation system. The remaining buses will be strategically deployed on high-traffic routes that connect key cities and towns such as Suryapet, Warangal, Nalgonda, Karimnagar, and Nizamabad. This distribution is expected to significantly improve connectivity and reduce congestion on these busy routes.
Replacing Diesel Buses and Expanding Rural Access
In a further effort to reduce the state’s carbon footprint, the new electric buses will replace older diesel buses in several depots, including those at the Hyderabad Central University (HCU) and Hayathnagar. Additionally, some of the existing electric and diesel buses will be reallocated to rural areas where there is increasing demand for reliable public transportation. This initiative not only supports environmental goals but also ensures that rural communities benefit from the latest advancements in public transport technology.
Comprehensive EV Charging Infrastructure in the Works
To support the operation of the new electric buses, the TGSRTC is also establishing a network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the state. These charging stations are being set up at various strategic locations, including major depots such as Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station (MGBS), Jubilee Bus Station (JBS), Hyderabad Central University (HCU), Hayathnagar-2, Ranigunj, Kukatpally, BHEL, Hyderabad-2, Warangal, Suryapet, Karimnagar-2, and Nizamabad. Each station will be equipped with 20 to 25 charging guns, allowing multiple buses to charge simultaneously. This infrastructure will be crucial in ensuring the efficient operation of the electric bus fleet.
Upcoming Launch by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy
The new electric buses and the accompanying EV charging stations are expected to be officially launched soon by Telangana’s Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy. This launch will mark a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to embrace sustainable transportation solutions. Currently, the TGSRTC operates a fleet of 100 electric buses, including 49 buses serving the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) route and 10 buses operating between Vijayawada and Hyderabad. The addition of the new buses will further bolster this fleet, solidifying Telangana’s position as a leader in sustainable urban transport.
Conclusion: A Bold Step Towards a Greener Future
Telangana’s decision to introduce nearly 1,000 electric buses reflects a bold and forward-thinking approach to public transportation. By investing in electric vehicles and the necessary charging infrastructure, the state is taking significant steps towards reducing its environmental impact and improving the quality of life for its residents. As these buses take to the roads, they will not only reduce emissions but also set a new standard for public transport across the country.
