Ranchi's Ambitious Bus Modernisation Plan Faces Continued Delays
Over two years after receiving initial approval, Ranchi's ambitious plan to introduce 244 new city buses, including electric and double-decker vehicles, remains stalled due to repeated tender failures and an ongoing policy review by the state government. The project, designed to modernise the city's ageing public transport network, was expected to significantly enhance urban mobility and reduce reliance on the rapidly growing fleet of autos and e-rickshaws. Officials estimate that Ranchi currently has over 25,000 autos and nearly 8,000 e-rickshaws operating across the city, many without proper regulation or fixed fare structures.
Project Details and Proposed Routes
Under the proposal prepared by the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC), the city was to receive 220 diesel buses, 19 air-conditioned electric buses, and five double-decker buses. Authorities had also planned 16 dedicated routes connecting major urban stretches and outer-ring-road areas, along with modern bus stops, mobile ticketing, and real-time bus tracking facilities. The initiative aimed to provide easier connectivity and address traffic congestion.
Earlier, RMC assistant administrator Niharika Tirkey stated that the project was designed to improve public transport accessibility and reduce dependence on unregulated vehicles. “The new bus service aims to address the city’s traffic problems and provide easier connectivity across urban areas,” she said while outlining the proposed expansion plan. RMC additional administrator Sanjay Kumar added that the proposal has been sent to the concerned department for further consideration.
Challenges and Policy Reassessment
UDHD secretary Sunil Kumar revealed that multiple tender attempts failed to attract workable responses, forcing the government to reassess the project structure. “The proposal is currently under examination. Since earlier tenders did not succeed, some policy provisions and operational conditions may be revised to make the project more practical and financially viable,” he explained.
Currently, RMC operates only around 24 city buses, a sharp decline from a larger fleet of approximately 70 buses seven years ago. Commuters frequently complain of overcrowding, irregular stops, and poor maintenance. The stalled project leaves the city's public transport system struggling to meet demand, with unregulated autos and e-rickshaws filling the gap.
