Uttar Pradesh Unveils Major Green Transport Push in 2026-27 Budget
In a significant move towards sustainable mobility, the Uttar Pradesh state budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 has earmarked substantial funds to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and enhance road safety infrastructure.
Major Allocations for Electric Public Transport
The budget includes a provision of Rs 400 crore specifically for the procurement of electric buses. This investment aims to modernize the state's public transport fleet, reducing carbon emissions and operational costs associated with traditional diesel buses.
Complementing this initiative, an additional Rs 50 crore has been allocated for the establishment of electric vehicle charging stations at key bus stands across the state. This infrastructure development is crucial to support the growing fleet of e-buses and encourage broader public use of electric vehicles.
Statements from Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh
Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh emphasized the government's commitment to developing a clean and sustainable transportation system. He stated, "The state government is continuously striving to build a safe, modern, and environmentally friendly public transport network. The 2026-27 budget represents a visionary step that will strengthen our resolve to provide better, safer, and more convenient travel options for the public."
Minister Singh highlighted that the budget also allocates Rs 150 crore for the construction of new bus terminals. This funding supports the state's ongoing scheme to build modern, well-equipped bus stations, which will expand public transport services and provide enhanced amenities for passengers.
"This initiative will not only expand public transport services but also provide modern facilities to passengers, thereby strengthening the overall transport system," he added. Singh directed departmental officials to ensure the timely, transparent, and quality utilization of the approved budget to maximize public benefits.
Enhanced Focus on Road Safety and Accident Prevention
In a parallel effort to improve road safety, the budget allocates Rs 50 crore under the 'Chief Minister's Zero Fatality Vision Scheme'. This funding is dedicated to accident prevention measures and ensuring prompt post-accident response, aligning with the state's goal to reduce road accidents and fatalities by 50%.
Furthermore, Rs 120 crore has been provisioned for the rectification of accident-prone black spots on roads and bridges. Uttar Pradesh, which records an average of 22,000 road accident deaths annually—the highest in India—is intensifying efforts to curb these incidents.
Comprehensive Road Safety Initiatives
To complement these financial allocations, the transport department conducted a comprehensive public awareness campaign in January as part of Road Safety Month. The campaign focused on educating citizens about traffic rules and safe driving practices.
The state is also promoting programs like 'Road Safety Mitra' and 'Rahavir' to prevent accidents and increase awareness. These initiatives aim to engage youth in spreading road safety knowledge and ensure swift assistance and medical care for accident victims.
Minister Singh concluded by noting that the budget lays a solid foundation for equipping Uttar Pradesh with modern transportation infrastructure, enhancing road safety, and protecting the environment. The overarching goal is not only to expand transport services but also to make daily life safer, more accessible, and technologically advanced for all residents.
