Patna: In a major step towards modernising public transport, the state government on Wednesday signed a concession agreement with Greencell Mobility Private Limited for operating 400 electric buses under the Centre’s PM e-Bus Seva Scheme. The agreement was formalised between the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) and the private operator in Patna.
Signing Ceremony Details
Transport minister Damodar Rawat, transport secretary Raj Kumar, state transport commissioner Arif Ahsan and BSRTC administrator Atul Kumar Verma, along with other senior officials, were present at the signing ceremony.
Bus Specifications and Routes
Under the scheme, Bihar will get 400 air-conditioned electric buses with seating capacities of 35 and 42 passengers. These buses will run across six major cities—Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga and Purnia. In the first phase, 200 buses are expected to be rolled out by July 2026. Notably, the fleet will include 50 pink buses aimed at providing safer and more comfortable travel for women.
Safety and Convenience Features
The buses will be equipped with modern safety and convenience features, including CCTV cameras, GPS-based real-time tracking, panic buttons, passenger information systems, fire safety equipment, first-aid kits and mobile charging points. To support operations, charging infrastructure is being developed across six BSRTC divisions in coordination with the energy department. Each depot will have eight fast chargers capable of charging buses within 1 to 1.5 hours.
Government Statements
Speaking on the occasion, Rawat said the initiative would transform urban transport in Bihar by offering safe, accessible and eco-friendly mobility options while reducing pollution and dependence on fossil fuels. Transport secretary Raj Kumar said the project would improve traffic management and provide world-class transport services. Verma added that the electric bus fleet would give a new identity to public transport in the state. He also said BSRTC is upgrading 31 bus depots and stands into modern terminals under the PPP model to enhance passenger amenities.
