The Kerala government has introduced an additional fleet of 60 electric buses to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) as a part of the ongoing Smart City initiative.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan unveiled the new fleet during an event held in the capital city and handed them over to the Transport Minister, Antony Raju.
Vijayan expressed on Facebook that an additional 53 buses of this nature will soon be included in the fleet. He emphasized that the Left government is committed to advancing its comprehensive urban development policy. Presently, there are 50 electric buses operational in the state capital.
With this latest addition, the total count of electric buses across the state will reach 163, thereby contributing to the capital’s transformation into a green city. Highlighting the necessity for a high-speed transportation system, Vijayan underscored that the average transportation speed in the state is 40% below the national average.
He stressed the importance of both efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options. He cited the popularity of the Vande Bharat Express, noting that it signifies the growing preference for such high-speed transportation systems.
Vijayan also revealed that once the remaining buses are integrated into the KSRTC fleet, the city’s transportation services will be fully electric and environmentally conscious.
M B Rajesh, the Minister of Local Self-Government Department (LSGD), shared on Facebook that the total cost of the Thiruvananthapuram Smart City project amounts to Rs 1,135 crore. He specified that the central government contributes Rs 500 crore, while the city corporation contributes Rs 135 crore. He characterized the introduction of the new electric buses as an Onam gift to the state capital, enhancing its eco-friendliness.
Following the launch, the Chief Minister and other ministers experienced a ride on the electric bus, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable and innovative transportation solutions.
