Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service Approves Ambitious Rs 991 Crore Budget for 2026-27
In a significant move to bolster public transportation, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation-run Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) has given its approval to a draft budget of Rs 991 crore for the upcoming 2026-27 financial year. This substantial financial plan underscores the city's commitment to modernizing its transit infrastructure and enhancing commuter experiences.
Financial Breakdown and Projections
The budget outlines a detailed financial framework, with AMTS estimating a total income of Rs 358 crore for the period. However, a projected deficit of Rs 600 crore highlights the challenges in balancing revenues and expenditures. The outlay is strategically divided into two key components: a revenue budget of Rs 958 crore, which covers operational costs, and a capital budget of Rs 33 crore, earmarked for infrastructure development and upgrades.
Electrification and Fleet Expansion Goals
A major highlight of the budget is the ambitious plan to electrify the entire AMTS fleet to air-conditioned (AC) buses before the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Officials have set a goal to operate a total of 1,600 buses, with all units transitioning to AC by 2030. Progress is already underway, as out of an order for 225 electric buses, 25 have been delivered, marking a step forward in this green initiative.
Infrastructure and Integration Initiatives
To support this expansion, several infrastructure projects are in the pipeline. A new depot is planned near Sarkhej Chowkdi, while solar-powered charging facilities will be established at key locations including Jamalpur, Vasna, Vadaj, and Memnagar depots. The budget also includes plans for building Gujarat's first multi-level bus depot, developing a common charging policy, and creating a roadmap for functional integration between AMTS and the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS).
Enhanced Connectivity and Safety Measures
AMTS aims to improve connectivity by increasing bus frequency to surrounding villages and GIDC areas. Additionally, multi-modal integration bus ports will be developed on the outer side of the SP Ring Road, facilitating smoother transit options. Other initiatives focus on launching bus services to heritage and tourism sites, operating e-buses on both sides of the Sabarmati Riverfront, and installing safety audit and fire detection systems in all electric vehicle (EV) buses.
Training and Operational Improvements
To ensure efficient operations, the budget outlines specialized training programs for drivers and conductors. Furthermore, mobile training vehicles will be operated through a public-private partnership (PPP) model, enhancing skill development and service quality across the transport network.
This comprehensive budget reflects AMTS's vision for a more sustainable, integrated, and commuter-friendly public transport system in Ahmedabad, setting the stage for significant advancements in the years leading up to 2030.
