Uncertainty Surrounds Arrival of TNSTC Coimbatore Electric Buses in 2025
There is no clarity yet on whether the 100 electric buses promised to Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) Coimbatore Ltd. will be delivered by 2025.
The anticipation surrounding the operation of electric buses by TNSTC Coimbatore has significantly grown, especially after passengers had the chance to experience the electric buses operated by the private firm NeuGo on the Coimbatore-Tiruchi route.
Sources suggest that if TNSTC Coimbatore begins operating electric buses, the demand for them is expected to be high, primarily due to competitive ticket pricing that could be made possible by tax concessions.
These buses, equipped with the latest technology, are capable of covering up to 300 km on a single charge, which could enable TNSTC Coimbatore to extend services to cities like Tiruchi, Madurai, and even destinations in Karnataka and Kerala.
The National Electric Bus Programme (NEBP), which aims to deploy 50,000 electric buses across India by 2027, continues to push for the expansion of electric transportation.
Additionally, the Central government’s Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) scheme offers financial support to State Transport Undertakings (STUs) to enhance public transport systems, focusing on improving accessibility, connectivity, and service offerings.
However, in Tamil Nadu, the timeline for executing a two-year plan to secure 500 electric buses for various state transport corporations remains uncertain.
Trade union representatives urge the state government to leverage the PM E-Drive Scheme, which runs until March 31, 2026, to ensure that the state maximizes the potential of this green initiative.
The delay in the rollout of TNSTC Coimbatore electric buses raises concerns about the state’s ability to meet its ambitious targets for electric mobility.
While the promise of eco-friendly and cost-effective transportation remains on the horizon, the public and industry observers are eagerly waiting for the official launch.