Ahmedabad: In a major step towards modernising public transport, the Amdavad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) has announced that it will acquire 225 high-tech, air-conditioned electric buses. This marks a significant upgrade to the city’s iconic lal bus service, which began in 1947 with just 60 buses.

Officials said the new sensor-based e-buses, AMTS’s first electric fleet in its 76-year history, will begin rolling out on city roads in the first week of January, with full deployment planned in phases. Of the total fleet, 15 buses have already arrived, another 10 are expected within days, and all 225 buses are expected to be operational within the next 10 to 15 days.

Advanced Safety and Fire-Prevention Systems

Addressing concerns over electric vehicle safety and fire hazards, officials said the buses are equipped with automatic fire suppression systems near the battery units. In the event of a short circuit or if battery temperatures exceed prescribed limits, alerts are instantly sent to the driver, after which the automatic fire safety system activates immediately to control the situation.

Each bus is fitted with:

• SOS button

• STOP button

• Three CCTV cameras

• Real-time tracking system

• LED display screens

• Emergency exit gates, including breakable glass panels with safety hammers

• A safety mechanism that prevents the bus from moving unless all doors are fully closed

In addition, when the bus travels at speeds below 20 kmph, an external warning alarm is activated to alert pedestrians, compensating for the low noise levels of electric vehicles.

Cyber-Secure and Digitally Monitored

AMTS officials said the new fleet is among the country’s first “cyber-secure” buses. Each bus is equipped with an inbuilt antivirus system, preventing hacking or unauthorised route changes. Routes are digitally locked and jointly monitored by the operator and the transport authority, ensuring buses operate strictly as scheduled.

Real-time tracking enables authorities to monitor the exact location of each bus, while all vehicles will undergo a mandatory annual digital audit to ensure safety and operational compliance.

Shift to Green Mobility

With diesel buses already phased out and CNG buses gradually being replaced, the induction of e-buses marks a decisive shift towards clean and sustainable public transport. Officials said future procurements will also prioritise electric vehicles, significantly reducing pollution and supporting the city’s climate goals.

Passenger Comfort and Future Readiness

All new buses are fully air-conditioned, aimed at improving passenger comfort amid heat, dust, and rising temperatures linked to global warming. Officials said the upgrade also aligns with Ahmedabad’s preparations for major international events, including the Commonwealth Games.

An estimated 6–7 lakh passengers travel daily across AMTS and BRTS services, and the transition to AC electric buses is expected to significantly enhance the overall commuting experience. DeshGujarat