Kolkata Launches Major Green Transport Initiative with 200 New AC CNG Buses
In a significant move to modernize public transportation and combat pollution, Kolkata is set to receive a fleet of 200 new air-conditioned (AC) buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This ambitious project, led by the West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC), follows the recent introduction of 25 AC buses as part of a green fleet initiative, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing commuter comfort and reducing environmental impact in the city.
Expansion of Bus Routes and Connectivity
The new AC CNG buses will operate across 21 newly conceived routes, designed to improve connectivity throughout Kolkata and its suburbs. These routes include both completely new paths and extensions or revivals of old ones, aiming to cater to diverse commuter needs. Key areas of focus include linking Kolkata with Howrah, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, and the New Town–Sector V corridor, which is a major IT hub.
Notable routes include:
- ACT-1 Kudghat–Barasat and ACT-35 Joka–Barasat for northbound services.
- ACT-24 Sealdah–Howrah/Gashbagan and ACT-32 Howrah–Barrackpur Lalkuthi for suburban links.
- ACT-26 Howrah–Baruipur and ACT-33 Saltlake–Baruipur for south and southwest connectivity.
- ACT-21 KWIC–Ecospace and ACT-36 Belgachhia–Ecospace for IT hub routes.
Additional services such as ACT-38 Karunamoyee–Barrackpur Lalkuthi and ACT-39 Esplanade–Rajbalhat further expand the network. However, sources indicate that the viability of these routes will depend on their performance, with commuters emphasizing the need for increased frequency to accurately assess success.
Fleet Details and Financial Investment
The 200-strong fleet comprises a mix of bus types to address different commuter requirements:
- 120 semi-deluxe buses, each 12 meters long and priced at Rs 65 lakh.
- 50 deluxe buses, also 12 meters long, priced at Rs 70.4 lakh each.
- 30 midi buses, 9 meters long, priced at Rs 42 lakh each.
The state government has allocated Rs 125 crore for this initiative, underscoring its commitment to upgrading public transport infrastructure. Orders for these vehicles were placed several months ago, with the first batch of six Eicher 2090 CNG AC buses already received at the Kasba depot in December, signaling the project's commencement.
Expected Timeline and Impact
The initiative is projected to be fully operational before March next year, aiming to significantly reduce pollution levels by replacing older, more polluting buses with cleaner CNG alternatives. This transition is expected to not only improve air quality but also provide a more comfortable and reliable commuting experience for residents. The modernization effort aligns with broader goals of sustainable urban development, positioning Kolkata as a leader in green public transportation in India.
As the city prepares for this rollout, stakeholders are optimistic about the positive changes it will bring, though challenges such as route viability and service frequency remain key considerations for long-term success.
