In the next year, 100 AC-equipped electric buses will be released by NMPML, Nashik Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited.
According to sources from NMPML, approximately 50 buses would be introduced within the first stage within 6 months. An official from NMPML stated that the remaining 50 buses would be introduced in the second stage.
“These buses will be introduced under the Centre’s national clean air programme to make the city air less polluted. Nashik is one of the cities that has been included in this programme. Under this programme, the government would be providing a subsidy of Rs 50 lakh per bus. The transport utility has already received part of the subsidy amount for the buses that would be rolled out in the first phase,” the official added.
Transport utility is currently preparing details for the tenders to invite bids from private companies interested in providing and operating AC electric buses.
“Once bids have been finalized, the subsidy amount will be transferred to the account of private contractors for the purchase and operation of buses. The official also stated that the necessary infrastructure would be created to charge these vehicles.”
The AC bus fare would be the same as the non-AC buses currently operating in the area, although a final decision has yet to be made. According to the official, the NMPML is working hard to improve the city’s public transportation system as it will help reduce air pollution.
