The addition, combined with replacement of ageing vehicles, is expected to expand BMTC’s fleet from around 7,000 buses to nearly 11,000 in 18 months
Bengaluru: More than half of BMTC’s fleet could be electric within 18 months, with the state cabinet Thursday approving induction of 4,500 e-buses under the Centre’s PM E-DRIVE scheme. The induction of 4,500 e-buses will help reduce congestion and provide environmental benefits. Transport minister Byrathi Suresh said the govt had decided to raise Rs 2,000 crore from the Centre to strengthen transport infrastructure across Karnataka, including construction of new depots and upgrading bus stands.
Union minister for heavy industries HD Kumaraswamy told TOI : “Bengaluru is growing rapidly. To strengthen the city’s public transport system, the Centre has made the highest allocation of buses under the PM E-DRIVE scheme. The Centre is ready to provide more e-buses if BMTC requires them.
He said more than 1 crore women would shortly receive smart cards under the Shakti scheme, with the first phase expected to cost around Rs 250 crore.
On a possible fare revision, transport minister Byrathi Suresh said fuel prices had increased four times in eight months. Bus fares, he said, would be increased marginally without placing an additional burden on the public. A committee headed by retired IAS officer Atul Tiwari is expected to submit its report shortly.