APSRTC Launches Major Rs 18 Crore Upgrade for Vijayawada's Vidhyadharapuram Bus Depot
The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has announced a comprehensive development plan for the Vidhyadharapuram bus depot in Vijayawada, with an estimated investment of nearly Rs 18 crore. This strategic initiative aims to transform the depot into a central hub for electric bus operations, scheduled to be integrated into the RTC fleet during the second half of 2026.
Key Features and Infrastructure Enhancements
The upgraded depot will be equipped with 20 new bus charging points, designed to support state-of-the-art amenities. A critical component of the plan involves elevating the ground level by at least 5 feet to prevent water inundation during the monsoon season, ensuring operational continuity and safety.
Financial allocations for the project are detailed as follows: Rs 11.2 crore has been earmarked for civil works, while Rs 6.7 crore is designated for electrical works. This breakdown underscores the RTC's commitment to robust infrastructure development.
Temporary Operational Shifts and Future Plans
To facilitate the development works, depot operations will be temporarily relocated to nearby bus depots within Vijayawada. An RTC official explained, "All buses, tools, machinery, and regular bus operations from the Vidhyadharapuram depot will be shifted to adjacent facilities until the upgrades are complete." This move aims to minimize disruption to public transport services.
Vijayawada is set to receive 100 new electric buses, which will be inducted into the city bus fleet. The Vidhyadharapuram depot will serve as the primary operations and maintenance center for these vehicles. As part of an agreement with Pinnacle Mobility Solutions Private Limited, the depot will be handed over to the firm for establishing the charging infrastructure. Once development is finished, regular bus operations will be restored at the depot.
Electric Bus Specifications and Charging Strategy
The electric buses are expected to have a maximum range of 200 kilometres on a single full charge, with charging times estimated at 3-4 hours per bus. Charging will occur both during night-time and day-time, as needed, to optimize fleet efficiency. The official added, "Plans are underway to utilize the bus depot as a regular bus station post-development, enhancing its role in the city's transport network."
This project represents a significant step towards sustainable public transportation in Andhra Pradesh, aligning with broader environmental and urban development goals.
