Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the state’s first double-decker electric bus service, marking a milestone in the state’s efforts to modernize its public transport system and reduce pollution. The launch event took place at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow, where CM Yogi Adityanath flagged off the bus and also took a ride on it, accompanied by children, to familiarize himself with the features of the new vehicle. This launch comes as part of Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to implementing eco-friendly transportation solutions and addressing growing urban challenges such as traffic congestion and environmental degradation.
Key Highlights of Double-Decker Electric Bus Initiative
The introduction of electric buses is seen as a transformative step toward achieving sustainable urban mobility in Uttar Pradesh. Here are some of the key features and plans associated with this launch:
- Environmental and Traffic Benefits
The new service will play a pivotal role in reducing the carbon footprint of the state’s public transportation system. By replacing traditional fuel-powered buses with electric models, the initiative aims to mitigate air pollution in major cities like Lucknow, which has been grappling with poor air quality in recent years. Moreover, with the capacity to carry 65 passengers, the double-decker buses can ease traffic congestion by reducing the number of vehicles on the roads.
- Expansion to Other Cities
The service will not be limited to Lucknow alone. Chief Minister Adityanath announced that similar electric bus services will be introduced in other major cities across Uttar Pradesh, including Varanasi, Kanpur, Prayagraj, and Gorakhpur. In the first phase, 20 double-decker electric buses will be procured by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC), and tenders have already been issued to facilitate this purchase.
- Technological Advancements
The buses feature several technological innovations, including real-time tracking systems and CCTV cameras for passenger safety. Each bus will be equipped with five CCTV cameras, panic buttons for emergency situations, and a live tracking system to ensure passenger security. The buses are designed to travel 150-200 kilometers on a single charge, making them suitable for intercity routes. Charging stations will be set up along the major routes to ensure uninterrupted service. The buses are also equipped with air conditioning, making travel more comfortable for passengers, especially during hot weather.
- Affordable and Convenient
One of the key attractions of the double-decker electric buses is their affordability. The fare structure will be lower compared to conventional buses, making them an attractive option for daily commuters. Additionally, the buses will cater to women passengers by offering a 50% discount on ticket prices and providing free travel for women on heritage routes on Saturdays.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth
The launch of the double-decker electric bus service also highlights Uttar Pradesh’s growing role in the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sector. The Hinduja Group, a leading business conglomerate, is setting up an electric vehicle plant in the state, where the production of electric buses will soon commence. This move is expected to create job opportunities and foster economic growth, especially in the manufacturing sector, as the demand for electric vehicles continues to rise across India.
- Charging Infrastructure
A major challenge in implementing electric buses is the availability of charging infrastructure. To address this, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to establish 12 charging stations along the routes where these electric buses will operate. The stations will be strategically located in cities like Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur.
