The Indian government is initiating a significant plan targeting interstate passenger travel by transitioning a substantial number of diesel buses to electric models. Currently, approximately 1.25-1.45 million buses operate on intercity or interstate routes, with around 250,000 managed by state governments. Most of these buses run on diesel, and switching to electric buses is expected to significantly reduce emissions.
Key Components of the Initiative
Expansion of Charging Infrastructure
To support the transition, the government plans to enhance charging infrastructure along highways. This includes installing fast chargers on major routes connecting urban centers, ensuring that electric buses can maintain continuous operation.
Support for State Governments
A roadmap is being developed to assist state governments in purchasing electric buses for long-distance operations. This support is crucial for state transport undertakings (STUs) to smoothly transition their fleets to electric.
Incentives for Electric Buses
According to a government official, electric buses are viable for continuous travel of up to eight to nine hours. The government is considering incentives to facilitate the widespread use of electric buses. Currently, electric buses are subsidized for urban transportation under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme. There is potential for this scheme to be extended or for a similar scheme to be introduced to cover interstate transport.
Encouragement for Private Fleet Operators
Efforts are also underway to encourage private bus fleet operators and institutional buyers, such as schools and colleges, to transition to electric mobility. For example, electric school buses, which typically operate for short durations within cities, can significantly contribute to this shift. Incentives for private players to adopt electric buses are being considered to accelerate this transition.
Long-Term Strategy: Replacing Diesel Buses
In December of the previous year, reports indicated that the government was formulating a comprehensive plan to replace 800,000 diesel buses with electric ones over the next seven years. This ambitious replacement strategy aims to deploy:
200,000 electric buses for state transport undertakings (STUs)
550,000 for private operators
50,000 for schools and employee transportation by 2030
Environmental and Economic Impact
Transitioning to electric buses is expected to bring significant environmental benefits by reducing emissions from one of the largest contributors to urban air pollution. Moreover, the move aligns with global trends toward sustainable and green transportation solutions.
From an economic perspective, the initial investment in electric buses and charging infrastructure may indeed be substantial. However, the long-term savings in fuel costs and maintenance, coupled with the environmental benefits, render this strategy economically viable. The transition to electric buses could also stimulate the electric vehicle (EV) market in India, fostering technological advancements and job creation within the EV sector. As the demand for electric buses grows, economies of scale could drive down manufacturing costs, making electric vehicles more affordable and accessible not only in the public transportation sector but also in private and commercial applications. Overall, while there may be upfront costs, the strategic shift toward electric buses presents significant opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development in the long run.
The Indian government’s plan to replace diesel buses with electric models is a forward-thinking approach aimed at reducing emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. By expanding charging infrastructure, providing incentives, and encouraging private sector participation, the government is laying the groundwork for a significant transformation in the public transport sector. This initiative not only supports environmental goals but also paves the way for economic growth and technological innovation in India’s transportation industry.
