BMTC Expands Fleet with 148 New Electric Buses

Swift Summary

• Bangalore metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) launched 148 new non-AC electric buses in Bengaluru, with 10 flagged off by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy at Shantinagar TTMC.
• The remaining buses will start operations within two days. BMTC’s e-bus fleet now totals 1,584 vehicles.
• Buses are supplied and operated through Tata Motors Ltd.’s Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model at ₹41.01/km for a bus, inclusive of electricity costs. BMTC provides conductors, while maintenance is handled by the contracted company.
• The new fleet aims to prevent emissions of approximately 2.07 lakh kg of CO₂ daily while saving nearly 77,000 liters of diesel each day as part of Bengaluru’s green transport initiatives.
• Features include zero-emissions operation, wheelchair accessibility, fire detection systems (FDAS), location tracking systems, panic buttons for safety measures, and a range of up to 200 km per charge with advanced battery technology (298 kWh capacity).

Indian Opinion Analysis
BMTC’s introduction of additional electric buses marks a significant step in promoting sustainable urban mobility solutions in Bengaluru-an imperative need given the city’s growing concerns around air pollution and traffic congestion challenges. By prioritizing emission reductions and fuel savings on such a large scale daily (CO₂ emissions cut by over two lakh kilograms), this initiative aligns well with broader environmental goals outlined both nationally through programs like the PM e-Drive scheme and globally under climate action commitments.additionally, advanced features like wheelchair ramps demonstrate attention to inclusivity within public transport services-a commendable move for an evolving urban hub like Bengaluru were equity in transit access has become increasingly vital.The phased addition targeting both AC and non-AC segments offers adaptability catering diverse commuter needs but depends heavily on sustained performance monitoring & careful contractor oversight moving long-term operational viability smoothly serving wider citizen demographics via scaling plans further Additionally.level.

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