347 Electric Buses for Punjab Sanctioned Under PM e-Bus Seva Scheme
Punjab is set to receive 347 electric buses under the centrally sponsored PM e-Bus Seva Scheme, marking a significant step toward transforming the state’s public transport system and promoting environmental sustainability.
These electric buses for Punjab will be allocated to four key cities: Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala, with the objective of improving urban mobility and reducing air pollution.
The PM e-Bus Seva Scheme, launched on August 16, 2023, is part of a nationwide initiative to deploy 10,000 electric buses across India through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This scheme aims to enhance the efficiency of public transport while supporting the country’s broader climate goals.
Also Read: Indore to Get the Highest Number of Electric Buses Under PM e-Bus Seva Yojana
City-wise Allocation of Electric Buses for Punjab
As part of the scheme, 347 electric buses will be distributed across the following cities:
| City | Number of Electric Buses |
|---|---|
| Ludhiana | 100 |
| Amritsar | 100 |
| Jalandhar | 97 |
| Patiala | 50 |
This allocation focuses on cities with growing populations and increasing transport demands, ensuring better connectivity and cleaner transport solutions.
Funding and Infrastructure Support
To support the deployment of these buses, the central government has sanctioned ₹45.11 crore for the development of essential infrastructure. The funds will be used to build:
- Civil Depot Facilities: Infrastructure to park, service, and maintain the electric buses.
- Behind-the-Meter Power Infrastructure: Facilities to ensure adequate power supply for charging the new fleet.
This financial assistance is part of the larger ₹20,000 crore central support dedicated to the PM e-Bus Seva Scheme, aimed at upgrading public transport systems across the country.
Environmental and Operational Benefits of Electric Buses for Punjab
The introduction of electric buses under this scheme is expected to:
- Reduce Carbon Emissions: Electric buses produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to cleaner air in urban areas.
- Lower Noise Pollution: Electric buses operate more quietly compared to diesel buses, benefiting city residents.
- Enhance Public Transport Efficiency: The buses will provide reliable and efficient transportation options for daily commuters.
The shift to electric buses aligns with national goals to reduce fossil fuel dependence and promote sustainable urban mobility.
Also Read: Thane to Get 100 New Electric Buses Under PM E-Bus Service Scheme
Statements from Officials
Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, emphasized the significance of this initiative in enhancing Punjab’s public transport infrastructure. He highlighted that the buses will improve connectivity and reduce pollution levels in the participating cities.
MP Sanjeev Arora, representing Ludhiana in the Rajya Sabha, welcomed the development and praised the scheme’s dual impact: improving public transport services and fostering a greener environment. He noted that Ludhiana’s 100 buses would contribute significantly to the city’s air quality and transport efficiency.
