Mumbai: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday directed the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to expedite the establishment of a statewide charging-station network to support the planned expansion of electric buses under the 'Viksit Maharashtra' vision. The state aims to convert 50% of its ST fleet to electric by 2029, 80% by 2035, and 100% by 2047, the CM stated.
MSRTC currently operates a fleet of 14,500 buses, which is set to increase to 22,000 within the next two to three years. The directives were issued during a review meeting on MSRTC's e-bus program held at the Chief Minister's official residence, Varsha. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik participated via video conference.
Fadnavis emphasized that charging infrastructure must be planned and executed simultaneously with fleet induction to ensure that buses can be deployed immediately upon delivery. He instructed officials to prioritize the establishment of required charging stations, with timelines aligned to depot readiness and route operations.
To enhance operational efficiency, the Chief Minister asked MSRTC to study proposed e-bus routes using artificial intelligence tools. This will enable data-driven decisions on scheduling, energy requirements, and turnaround times. He also directed that inspections of buses received from suppliers should be completed within seven days to avoid delays in commissioning. Stressing the need for a comprehensive support system, he called for an 'ecosystem' around e-buses, including maintenance preparedness and operational planning.
Fadnavis further stated that routes currently served by private buses should also be analyzed, and an e-bus alternative should be kept ready to strengthen public transport options and improve service competitiveness. The state's existing electric vehicle policy provides incentives to expand e-bus adoption in public transport. Under the policy, a subsidy of 10% of the bus cost or up to Rs 20 lakh per bus is available for 1,500 e-buses, aimed at accelerating the shift to cleaner mobility.
MSRTC is currently implementing a major procurement plan of 5,150 e-buses under the wet lease model. A union activist from MSRTC noted that about two years ago, the project commenced with great fanfare, but the e-buses have yet to arrive in large numbers. Last year, MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik stated that the company responsible for supplying 5,150 electric buses on a lease basis had proven inactive, and action should be taken to cancel the tender contract. However, a notice was subsequently served to the company to expedite deliveries of e-buses.
Fadnavis said the initiative would deliver modern, comfortable, and pollution-free travel for passengers across Maharashtra.
