Assam electric buses

1. Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurates 200 electric buses in Guwahati on January 1, 2024.
2. ASTC’s sustainable initiative focuses on curbing carbon emissions and phasing out older diesel-run buses.
3. The electric buses, serving 13 routes in Guwahati, align with the vision of reducing pollution and promoting green energy.

Guwahati, Jan 01: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took a substantial stride towards sustainable transportation by inaugurating 200 electric buses in Guwahati on January 1, 2024.

This initiative, led by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC), aims to reduce carbon emissions and replace older diesel-run buses. The introduction of these electric buses is anticipated to revolutionize public transport in the city, offering a cleaner and more eco-friendly alternative.

The deployment aligns with Assam Transport Minister Parimal Suklabaidya’s broader vision of reducing pollution and promoting green energy in the automotive sector. Acquired under the Guwahati Smart City Limited project, these buses will operate on 13 routes across Guwahati, showcasing the state’s commitment to utilizing smart technology for urban development.

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The move also supports the national agenda to combat air pollution, championed by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, and aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mission to introduce low-emission vehicles across Indian cities.

With this launch, Assam joins progressive states making significant strides in adopting electric mobility, contributing to the overarching goal of reducing the country’s carbon footprint.

As of October 30, 2023, India had sanctioned 7,090 e-buses under the FAME subsidy scheme, with only 2,435 operational on the roads at that time. Delhi leads the nation with the highest number of e-buses, having added 400 new electric buses to its fleet.

In terms of pricing, electric buses in Assam are available in various configurations, with prices ranging from approximately INR 825,000 for a 20-seater electric bus to around INR 1,000,000 for a 15-seater electric sightseeing bus with a battery capacity of 225 Ah.

This milestone event not only underscores Assam’s commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure but also signifies a substantial leap towards achieving India’s ambitious targets for electric vehicle adoption and environmental conservation.