Mangaluru Launches First Private Electric City Bus, Aims for Zero-Carbon Future
In a landmark move for sustainable urban transport, Mangaluru has officially launched its first fully electric, air-conditioned, and zero-emission private city bus on Thursday. This pioneering initiative signals a bold shift toward greener public transportation in the coastal city, with plans to expand the fleet significantly in the coming days.
Private Sector Leads Charge Toward Carbon-Free City
Dilraj Alva, former president of the Dakshina Kannada District Bus Owners Association, announced that Charge Mobility Private Limited, a consortium of private bus operators, is spearheading this eco-friendly transition. The group is committed to introducing more electric buses to help Mangaluru become free from carbon emissions. Alva emphasized that Charge Mobility will actively participate in all pan-India tenders to supply electric buses, showcasing their dedication to scaling this initiative nationally.
The first electric city bus in the private sector will begin operations on route 27, starting from Mangaladevi Temple, from Friday. This route marks the beginning of what promises to be a transformative journey for the city's commuters.
Century of Service Meets Modern Innovation
Reflecting on the legacy of private bus operators in the undivided Dakshina Kannada region, Alva highlighted their century-long service to the community. Over the years, these operators have embraced numerous changes to enhance passenger experience, including the introduction of cashless travel facilities and strict adherence to government fuel norms. The adoption of electric buses represents the latest evolution in their commitment to better, more sustainable services.
Made-in-India Electric Bus with Global Standards
Arathi K Parigi, managing director of Neuton Auto, a start-up registered under the Make In India initiative, provided detailed insights into the new electric bus. She described it as a made-in-India vehicle that meets global standards, already generating significant interest from bus operators and entrepreneurs across the country.
The nine-metre bus boasts a 34-seating capacity and is designed for superior ride quality while ensuring zero emissions. Its compact size allows for easy navigation through smaller streets, thanks to an excellent turning radius. Additionally, the bus features a kneel-down facility that lowers the front suspension, reducing the height of the entry step. This thoughtful design makes boarding and alighting easier, particularly for senior citizens, enhancing accessibility for all passengers.
This launch not only underscores Mangaluru's proactive approach to environmental sustainability but also sets a precedent for other cities to follow in adopting electric public transport solutions.
