Green Mobility Gains Momentum in Kangra as 45 Electric Buses Transform Public Transport
Lower emissions, reduced operating costs and comfortable travel boost adoption of e-transport
Dharamshala, September 2: The Himachal Pradesh government’s electric transport initiative aimed at building a ‘Green Himachal’ is now making a visible impact, with 45 electric buses currently operating on various routes across Kangra district.
HRTC Divisional Manager Engineer Pankaj Chadha said the CCTV-equipped electric buses offer safe, comfortable and environment-friendly travel while generating significantly less noise. The buses begin operation only after both doors are fully closed, enhancing passenger safety.
Significant savings in operating costs
The use of electric buses has resulted in substantial savings in operating costs. While diesel buses cost around ₹25-26 per kilometre to operate, the operating cost of electric buses is approximately ₹11-12 per kilometre.
E-charging stations established at a cost of ₹6.35 crore
E-charging stations have been established at Dharamshala, Nagrota Bagwan, Dehra, Palampur, Pathankot, Baijnath, Jasur and Kangra at a combined cost of around ₹6.35 crore. New charging stations will also be established at Jaisinghpur and Shahpur at an estimated cost of ₹1.26 crore.
Fast-charging facilities enable the buses to be charged in a shorter time and deployed efficiently on different routes.
Route planning and specialised training
Drivers have been provided specialised training for operating electric buses. Route planning is being undertaken in a manner that enables a bus to effectively cover around 170 to 250 kilometres. Surveys are also being conducted before introducing services on new routes.
A 12-year agreement has been signed with the concerned company for the operation and maintenance of the buses, ensuring long-term technical support and maintenance services.
Benefits for passengers and tourists
The low-noise, comfortable and environment-friendly nature of electric buses has increased passenger preference for e-transport. An increase in passenger numbers has also been recorded on several routes where these buses are operating. Their deployment on interstate routes has also proved convenient for tourists.
The Divisional Manager said that under the leadership and guidance of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, the state government is working towards establishing Himachal Pradesh as a model state in the field of electric mobility.
The expansion of electric transport is expected to give fresh impetus to clean, green and modern public transportation across the state.
Samagra Sikhsha
