The recent approval of the PM e-bus Seva scheme by the Union Cabinet is a big step towards improving urban mobility and boosting green transport across India.
Overview of the PM E-Bus Seva Scheme
- E-Bus Definition: At the heart of the programme are e-buses, which are buses that are powered entirely by zero-emissions electrical sources for both propulsion and accessory systems.
- Cost and scope: The PM e-bus Sewa scheme is expected to cost Rs 57,613 crore, with the central government investing Rs 20,000 crore.
- Operational Support: For a period of ten years, the initiative will give operational support to bus services.
Strategy for Implementation
- The scheme will be carried out in two main segments:
- 10,000 E-Buses: A public-private partnership (PPP) approach will be used to install 10,000 e-buses in 169 cities.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Green urban mobility efforts in 181 additional cities will prioritise infrastructure, bus priority, charging infrastructure, multimodal interchange facilities, and automated ticket collection systems.
- Depot Infrastructure: The first section will focus on the building and upgrade of depot infrastructure, including power substations, to serve the new e-buses.
- Job Creation: It is projected that the scheme will generate 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs, adding to employment growth.
Funding and coverage
- Coverage includes cities with populations of three lakh or more, Union Territory capitals, as well as northeastern and hill states.
- State or city governments will administer bus services and payments to bus operators, with the federal government paying subsidies as stipulated in the system. This method encourages decentralised management.
Positive Effects
- Environmental Advantages: The usage of electric buses reduces noise and air pollution, resulting in cleaner and healthier urban settings.
- Reduced Carbon Emissions: Electric transportation is consistent with India’s aim to reduce carbon emissions and battle climate change.
- Economies of Scale: It is envisaged that aggregating electric bus purchases will result in economies of scale, making electric buses more financially viable and boosting their adoption.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/in-green-mobility-push-cabinet-nod-for-10000-electric-buses-in-100-cities-8895888/#:~:text=In%20a%20move%20to%20promote,will%20%E2%80%9Credefine%20urban%20mobility%E2%80%9D.