By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The number of electric buses in Patna, the capital of Bihar, is set to increase significantly. An additional 150 electric buses will soon be operational, with routes expected to be finalised by October. According to reports, these buses are likely to arrive in Patna by November.
Under the PM e-Bus Seva Scheme, Bihar will receive a total of 400 electric buses, with 150 allocated to Patna, 50 each to Gaya, Purnia, Darbhanga, Bihar Sharif, and Muzaffarpur. The tender process has been completed, and production of these buses is already underway. Once operational, these buses are expected to benefit over 30,000 passengers daily, while also providing employment opportunities for more than 2,000 people.
Survey work is currently in progress to determine the routes these buses will take. Potential routes include Patna City, Atal Path, Bihta, and Maner, via Bailey Road and the city’s bypass. At present, government-run city buses operate on 14 routes, and with the inclusion of Atal Path, it will become the 15th route.
Sanjay Kumar Agrawal, Secretary of the Transport Department, confirmed that instructions have been given to select appropriate routes for the operation of the buses under the PM e-Bus Seva Scheme. Adequate charging stations will be installed to support the fleet.
The new electric buses will be fully air-conditioned and equipped with safety features, including CCTV cameras. Women passengers will benefit from increased safety. Furthermore, fares for these buses will be lower than current rates, making them more affordable. Long-distance travellers will also enjoy the added advantage of a cleaner and more comfortable journey.
