The Telangana State Transport Corporation (RTC) is taking important decisions to make the state’s public transport system pollution-free. To this end, preparations are underway to increase the number of electric buses in metropolitan cities.
As part of this initiative, the RTC has signed contracts with Olectra Greentech-EV Trans and Greencell Mobility, selected by the central government to supply electric buses, to supply 2,000 buses. The companies will begin manufacturing the new buses once the contract is completed. Officials say these buses will be available between the end of this year and August next year.
However, to control the rising pollution in major cities across the country, the central government is providing electric buses to all states under the PM e-Drive. As part of this initiative, the central government recently approved 2,000 electric buses for Telangana. Of these, the central government has awarded the tender to Olectra Greentech-EV Trans to manufacture 1,025 low-floor non-AC and 60 low-floor AC buses. In contrast, Greencell Mobility has been awarded the tender to manufacture 915 standard floor buses.
Central Transport Department Issued Circular
However, due to the increasing number of speed breakers in many parts of the city, the RTC believes that standard floor buses will be more convenient for smooth travel in those areas. Meanwhile, the central government recently issued a circular stating that all buses operating in cities must be low-floor. Additionally, the Telangana RTC has also written to the central government seeking clarification on this matter. Therefore, it appears that the RTC is seeking the supply of buses in accordance with the central government’s decision.
Charging Stations to Be Built
Charging stations are also being prepared for electric buses. Under this plan, the RTC plans to install HT connections at 19 existing depots and 10 proposed new depots in the city. Additionally, 10 dedicated charging stations will be established in Hyderabad to reduce the need for buses to return to the depots for charging. Government land has also been requested for these stations.
