In a momentous decision aimed at revolutionising urban mobility and propelling India towards sustainable transportation, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to the “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme. This visionary scheme seeks to introduce 10,000 electric buses to the city bus operation landscape, enhancing connectivity, reducing pollution, and generating significant employment opportunities.
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme resonates with India’s commitment to environmental conservation. The shift towards electric mobility is expected to significantly reduce noise and air pollution and curb carbon emissions. Moreover, the increased share of bus-based public transportation is projected to lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, furthering the nation’s stride towards sustainability.
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme also marks a historic leap towards embracing electric mobility and enhancing urban transportation in India. By leveraging the power of electric buses and promoting environmentally conscious initiatives, the scheme is set to reshape the mobility landscape, foster job creation, reduce pollution, and contribute to the nation’s journey towards a greener future.
Scheme overview and investment
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme, with an estimated cost of INR 57,613 crore, embraces a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to usher in a fleet of 10,000 e-buses. To drive the successful implementation of the scheme, the Central government is set to provide support of INR 20,000 crore. The program aims to bolster bus operations for a period of 10 years, establishing a formidable foundation for sustainable urban transportation.
Extending reach to uncovered areas
A defining feature of the scheme is its comprehensive coverage. It encompasses cities with populations exceeding three lakh, based on the 2011 census, including Union Territories‘ capital cities, the North Eastern Region, and the Hill States. A strategic emphasis has been placed on cities lacking organised bus services, ensuring that mobility reaches even the most remote corners of the nation.
Significance for employment generation
The “PM-eBus Sewa” initiative is set to serve as a catalyst for employment opportunities. The deployment of approximately 10,000 buses is projected to generate an impressive 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs, contributing significantly to the economy and enhancing livelihoods.
Dual segments for comprehensive impact
The scheme operates through two integral segments, augmenting city bus services and green urban mobility initiatives (GUMI). The first segment focuses on bolstering city bus operations through the introduction of 10,000 e-buses under the PPP model. The associated infrastructure development includes upgrading depot facilities and creating behind-the-meter power infrastructure. This strategic approach is poised to accelerate the transition towards electric mobility while enhancing the overall urban transportation experience.
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This second segment takes a holistic approach to green urban mobility. It encompasses a range of initiatives, including bus priority infrastructure, multimodal interchange facilities, Automated Fare Collection Systems based on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), and charging infrastructure. By facilitating these green initiatives, the scheme not only promotes electric mobility but also fosters innovation in the e-mobility sector and nurtures resilient electric vehicle supply chains.
Industry welcomes initiative
Welcoming the government’s noble initiative, the industry stakeholders from the tourism and mobility sector said it is a monumental stride towards transforming India’s transformation landscape while taking steps towards sustainability and overall growth.
Sudhakar Reddy Chirra, Founder of Freshbus, an electric bus operator backed by ixigo, said, “By embracing e-mobility on such a large scale, we are not only revolutionising public transport but also taking a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. We share a common vision with the Government of India to create sustainable and eco-friendly mobility solutions that can reshape our cities and promote a greener, more sustainable future for all.”
Rohit Sharma, COO, AbhiBus said the industry will be able to save close to 600,000-1,000,000 litres of diesel daily with 10,000 new EV buses operating every day with daily buses travelling an average of 300-500 km.
“This could lead to savings of INR 2500 to INR 3700 crore every year. We have onboarded all EV operators on our platform, like Neugo and Freshbus, who are our EV bus partners. This approach aligns perfectly with our vision of efficient resource management, ensuring optimal utilisation. As a forward-looking company, we have diligently tracked the current inventory of EV buses, recognising their positive impact on reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality. This data-driven insight reinforces our conviction in the environmental sustainability this scheme promises,” he said.
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