Chandigarh is set to receive 328 electric buses under the central government's FAME-II scheme, with the first batch expected to arrive in October. This initiative aims to reduce vehicular pollution and promote sustainable public transportation in the city.
Details of the Electric Bus Deployment
The Union Territory administration has finalized plans to induct 328 electric buses under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II) scheme. The buses will be procured through a tender process and will be operated by the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU). The first batch of these buses is likely to hit the roads by October this year.
Funding and Cost
The total cost of the project is estimated at around Rs 400 crore, with the central government providing a subsidy of Rs 200 crore under the FAME-II scheme. The remaining amount will be borne by the Chandigarh administration. The buses will be equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, GPS tracking, and CCTV cameras.
Impact on Environment and Commuters
Once operational, these electric buses will significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in the city. They will also offer a comfortable and eco-friendly travel option for commuters. The CTU plans to deploy these buses on major routes, including those connecting the city to nearby towns and villages.
Phased Implementation
The deployment of the electric buses will be carried out in phases. The first phase will see 100 buses introduced by October, followed by the remaining 228 buses by March next year. The administration has also planned to set up charging infrastructure at key locations, including the CTU depot and major bus stands.
Challenges and Preparations
Officials are working on addressing challenges such as range anxiety and charging time. The CTU has already started training drivers and maintenance staff to handle electric buses. Additionally, the power utility has been roped in to ensure adequate power supply for charging stations.
The introduction of electric buses is part of the central government's push for electric mobility in India. Chandigarh, known for its high vehicle density, is expected to benefit greatly from this green initiative.
