Karnataka Seeks Electric Buses under PM E-Drive Initiative
In a significant move towards sustainable urban public transport, Karnataka has formally requested electric buses under the PM E-Drive initiative. This decision is expected to bring a significant reduction in emissions and pollution in the state’s cities, aligning with the government’s vision of a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable future.
The PM E-Drive initiative, backed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to deploy 14,028 electric buses across India by 2026. This ambitious project is a step towards reducing India’s reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the impact of air pollution on public health. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the Ministry of Urban Affairs, and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
Union Heavy Industries Minister HD Kumaraswamy recently confirmed that Karnataka would receive a substantial allocation of electric buses under the PM E-Drive initiative. He assured the state of full support, emphasizing the importance of urban public transport in improving the quality of life for citizens.
Kumaraswamy’s assurance is significant, as it indicates that the central government is committed to supporting states like Karnataka in their efforts to transition to cleaner and more sustainable modes of transportation. The allocation of electric buses is expected to be phased, with a clear plan in place for infrastructure development and maintenance.
The PM E-Drive initiative is designed to promote a shift away from traditional fossil fuel-powered buses and towards electric vehicles. Electric buses offer numerous benefits, including reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and improved air quality. They also provide a smoother ride for passengers, making them a more comfortable and convenient option for commuters.
The deployment of electric buses is expected to have a significant impact on India’s urban public transport landscape. By 2026, the initiative aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10 million tons, equivalent to taking 2.5 million cars off the road. This reduction in emissions will not only help mitigate the effects of climate change but also improve air quality in cities, making them healthier and more livable.
Karnataka’s decision to seek electric buses under the PM E-Drive initiative is a welcome development for the state’s citizens. The state’s cities, such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi, are among the most populous and congested in the country, with traffic congestion and air pollution being major concerns.
The introduction of electric buses will help alleviate these concerns by providing a cleaner and more sustainable option for commuters. Electric buses are also expected to improve the overall efficiency of public transport, reducing congestion and promoting a more efficient use of roadspace.
The PM E-Drive initiative is not limited to the allocation of electric buses. The government is also investing in the development of charging infrastructure, including the installation of charging points and the development of battery swapping technology. This will ensure that electric buses can be easily charged and maintained, making them a reliable and practical option for urban public transport.
In conclusion, Karnataka’s decision to seek electric buses under the PM E-Drive initiative is a significant step towards a cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable future for the state’s cities. The initiative is expected to bring numerous benefits, including reduced emissions, improved air quality, and a more efficient public transport system.
As the government continues to work towards the deployment of 14,028 electric buses across India by 2026, it is clear that Karnataka is committed to being at the forefront of this initiative. With the support of the central government and the phased allocation of electric buses, the state is well on its way to creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban public transport system.
Source: https://www.refersms.com/karnataka-seeks-electric-buses/
