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To ease overcrowding caused by the Shakti scheme, the Centre has approved large-scale induction of AC and non-AC electric buses for BMTC, with 1,750 buses in the first phase.
In a major relief for commuters struggling with overcrowding and seat shortages after the implementation of the Shakti scheme, the Central Government has approved the addition of 1,750 new electric buses to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) fleet under the PM E-DRIVE scheme.
At present, BMTC operates over 6,800 buses across Bengaluru. However, the rising passenger demand, especially after the Shakti free travel scheme for women, has put immense pressure on public transport services. To address this, the Centre has decided to supply modern AC and non-AC electric buses in phases.
In the first phase itself, BMTC will receive 1,750 electric buses, which will significantly improve connectivity, reduce crowding, and provide better travel comfort. These new buses will also help in phasing out older vehicles, ensuring safer, cleaner, and more efficient public transport.
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Under the PM E-DRIVE scheme, these electric buses will operate on a contract basis for a period of 12 years. This long-term arrangement aims to promote sustainable transport while reducing operational costs and pollution levels in the city.
At the national level, the Central Government has decided to deploy 14,000 AC and non-AC electric buses across various cities under the PM E-DRIVE initiative. Out of this, Bengaluru has been allocated a total of 4,500 electric buses, making it one of the biggest beneficiaries of the scheme.
The arrival of these buses is expected to drastically improve daily commuting conditions, especially during peak hours, and provide much-needed relief to passengers who have been facing severe seat shortages and long waiting times.
Officials say the rollout will happen in phases, with the first batch of 1,750 buses expected soon, marking a major step towards strengthening Bengaluru’s public transport infrastructure.
