Centre Plans New Scheme to Expand Electric Buses

Centre Plans New Scheme to Expand Electric Buses

Why in the News ?

The Union Government is considering a new electric bus scheme after allocating 14,000 e-buses under the PM E-DRIVE programme, aiming to further boost clean public transport, reduce emissions, and accelerate India’s transition toward sustainable urban mobility systems and a pollution free environment.

Expansion of Electric Bus Initiative:

  • The Centre plans a new or extended scheme to procure additional electric buses (e-buses) for States.
  • This follows successful tendering and allocation of 14,028 buses under the PM E-DRIVE scheme.
  • The programme has a total outlay of ₹10,900 crore, with ₹4,391 crore earmarked for e-buses.
  • Implementation handled by Convergence Energy Services Limited.
  • States are expected to receive buses over the next 2–3 years.
  • The Centre may consult States to assess demand before launching the next phase.
  • Indicates a strong push towards electrification of public transport.

Implementation Challenges and Operational Issues

  • Integrating a large fleet of e-buses poses logistical and operational challenges.
  • Key issues include:

○   Depot infrastructure constraints (charging stations, maintenance facilities) requiring environmental clearances

○   Route planning and scheduling adjustments

  • Need for skilled workforce and technical expertise in electric mobility.
  • High upfront costs of infrastructure despite lower operating costs.
  • Coordination required between Centre, States, and urban local bodies.
  • Ensuring reliable battery performance and charging networks is critical.
  • Highlights the importance of holistic urban transport planning.

 

About Electric Mobility & Policy :

●  PM E-DRIVE Scheme: Focuses on electric mobility expansion, especially public transport.

●  FAME India Scheme (Phase II): Provides subsidies for electric vehicles and charging infrastructure.

●  National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP): Targets reducing fossil fuel dependency.

●  Benefits of e-buses:

○   Reduced carbon emissions and air pollution

○   Lower operational and fuel costs

○   Improved urban air quality

●  Challenges:

○   High initial investment

○   Limited charging infrastructure

○   Battery disposal and sustainability concerns

●  Supports India’s commitments under climate agreements and net-zero goals.

●  Promotes sustainable urbanisation and green transport systems.