Ahmedabad: The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is expanding the use of AC electric buses in the city to promote environmental protection, save fuel, and provide more convenient public transport services to citizens. To strengthen green transport, AMC has placed large-scale orders for new electric buses. Over the past year, a total of 561 electric buses have been ordered, including 311 for AMTS and 250 for BRTS. The supply of these buses and their phased operation will begin in 2026, the civic body said.

In addition, under the PM E-DRIVE programme, an order for 1,000 electric buses has been placed. The tender process for another 660 electric buses is currently underway, while preparations are being made to float tenders for 300 more buses. With these additions, a total of 1,960 new electric buses are expected to be added to the city fleet by 2027. Over the next five years, a combined target of 2,700 electric buses has been set for AMTS and BRTS.

At present, around 400 CNG AC buses are operational in Ahmedabad. With the addition of new electric buses, the city will have a total green mobility fleet of about 3,100 buses, giving Ahmedabad a distinct identity in public transportation at the national and international level.

From an environmental perspective, the initiative is expected to have a major impact. It is estimated that by 2030, when around 3,000 electric buses are in operation, greenhouse gas emissions will reduce by about 300 tonnes per day and nearly 1.10 lakh tonnes annually. Diesel consumption will also decline significantly, helping reduce the city’s carbon footprint, the civic body said.

Officials said electric buses are also economically beneficial, as they have fewer mechanical parts compared to diesel buses, leading to lower maintenance costs and quicker repairs. This improves operational efficiency and reduces downtime. Citizens will also benefit from cleaner, quieter, and more comfortable travel, which is expected to encourage the use of public transport and reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

AMC said the initiative is an important step towards making Ahmedabad a model city for green mobility. Keeping in view the proposed Commonwealth Games 2030 and other international events, efforts are being made to further strengthen public transport, as around 800 to 1,000 buses may be required during such occasions.

Electric bus services in Ahmedabad began in 2019 under the BRTS project with 50 electric buses, followed by 150 more buses in 2021. AMTS has also introduced double-decker electric buses, and currently 204 electric buses are operating in the city. DeshGujarat