In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable urban mobility, the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given the green light to the “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme. This innovative initiative aims to bolster city bus operations by introducing 10,000 electric buses (e-buses) on a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. With an estimated cost of Rs.57,613 crore, the scheme will receive substantial backing of Rs.20,000 crore from the Central government, and it is set to transform urban transportation dynamics over the coming decade.
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme is tailored to serve cities with a population of three lakh and above, based on the 2011 census data. This inclusive approach covers all capital cities of Union Territories, as well as regions in the North Eastern states and hilly terrains. Notably, the initiative prioritizes cities that currently lack an organized bus service, aiming to bridge gaps in urban connectivity.
A key highlight of the scheme is its potential to generate 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs through the deployment of around 10,000 electric buses in city bus operations. This dual focus on job creation and innovative transportation solutions aligns with the government’s broader sustainable development goals.
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme is divided into two segments to comprehensively address urban mobility needs:
- Augmenting City Bus Services (Segment A): Covering 169 cities, this segment focuses on enhancing city bus operations through the introduction of 10,000 electric buses on a PPP model. It also encompasses the development and upgrading of depot infrastructure and behind-the-meter power infrastructure, including substations, catering to the unique requirements of electric buses.
- Green Urban Mobility Initiatives (GUMI) (Segment B): Spanning 181 cities, this segment emphasizes green initiatives such as bus priority infrastructure, multimodal interchange facilities, Automated Fare Collection Systems based on the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), charging infrastructure, and more. These initiatives collectively contribute to creating a holistic and sustainable urban mobility ecosystem.
The scheme’s comprehensive approach not only promotes the adoption of electric mobility but also extends full support to the development of essential behind-the-meter power infrastructure. By investing in charging infrastructure under Green Urban Mobility Initiatives, the government is fostering a conducive environment for electric vehicle adoption and innovation in the electric mobility sector.
The “PM-eBus Sewa” scheme is poised to revolutionize urban transportation by reducing noise and air pollution and curbing carbon emissions. With an increased emphasis on bus-based public transportation, there’s an anticipated shift towards greener alternatives, leading to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and a healthier urban environment.
The approval of this ambitious scheme underscores the Indian government’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility, economic growth, and environmental preservation, signalling a promising future for clean and efficient transportation solutions.
