APSRTC to Roll Out 100 Electric Buses in Visakhapatnam to Support IT Hub Growth
In a significant move to bolster public transportation and support urban development, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) is set to introduce 100 electric buses to its fleet in Visakhapatnam. State Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramaprasad Reddy announced this initiative on Saturday, highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing mobility and sustainability in the region.
Strategic Focus on IT Hub Connectivity
As part of efforts to establish Visakhapatnam as a premier IT hub in India, the government is launching special bus services to improve connectivity for tech professionals. These buses will operate from various areas in Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram, directly linking them to the Madhurawada IT Hills. This targeted service aims to reduce commute times and support the growing workforce in the IT sector.
Minister Reddy inaugurated two additional special buses at the Maddilapalem depot, specifically designed for the convenience of IT employees traveling from different parts of Visakhapatnam to the IT Hills. He detailed the phased implementation of these services, noting that four buses were operational starting October 2024, followed by another four added in May 2025. With the increasing number of employees at IT Hills, two more buses are scheduled to be introduced soon, including routes from Kothavalasa and Vizianagaram to Madhurawada.
Expansion of Electric Bus Fleet and Broader Public Transport Plans
The addition of 100 electric buses in Visakhapatnam is part of a larger state-wide initiative to purchase 700 electric buses, aimed at modernizing public transport and reducing carbon emissions. This move aligns with global trends towards sustainable mobility and is expected to improve air quality and operational efficiency in urban areas.
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the government is also focusing on employee welfare and recognition. Under the 'Stree Shakti' scheme, which offers free travel for women, Visakhapatnam district has achieved the top rank in the state for providing travel facilities to the highest number of women. Additionally, APSRTC awarded appreciation certificates to conductors, drivers, and mechanics for maintaining buses in excellent condition, and promotion certificates were presented to eligible employees in various categories, including conductors, drivers, and mechanics, in line with government directives.
This comprehensive approach not only enhances public transport facilities but also supports economic growth by facilitating easier access to key employment centers like the IT Hills. The initiatives reflect a holistic strategy to boost Visakhapatnam's profile as a leading IT destination while promoting sustainable and inclusive urban development.
