On September 29, 2024, India’s Ministry of Heavy Industries launched the PM E-DRIVE scheme, marking a significant step in the nation’s effort to enhance its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. This scheme is designed to accelerate the adoption of electric buses, building on the success of previous initiatives like the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) program. With a budget allocation of Rs 10,900 crore, the PM E-DRIVE scheme is focused on supporting the transition to electric buses, with a significant subsidy component to make EVs more accessible.
Key Features of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme
The PM E-DRIVE scheme’s primary aim is to provide subsidies for the procurement of electric buses across major cities in India. A total of Rs 4,391 crore is earmarked for the subsidy of 14,028 electric buses, targeting nine major cities. The subsidy for each bus ranges from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 35 lakh, depending on the size of the bus, with a cap of Rs 2 crore per bus. This initiative is expected to streamline operations by leasing the buses to state transport agencies on a per-kilometre basis under a Gross Cost Contract (GCC), ensuring a minimum number of operational kilometres per day.
Karnataka’s Vision for a Green Bengaluru
Karnataka, one of the key beneficiaries of the PM E-DRIVE scheme, has set ambitious goals for Bengaluru’s public transportation. The state has formally requested 5,000 electric buses for the city, a significant addition to its fleet, which currently operates over 6,000 buses under the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC). The city’s growing population and urbanization make it essential to expand the bus fleet, as it aims to meet a total requirement of 10,000-12,000 buses to ensure efficient and sustainable public transport.
Current Fleet and Ongoing Projects
BMTC has already made strides in incorporating electric buses into its fleet. Presently, the corporation operates 1,231 non-AC electric buses, of which 90 are leased under the Smart Cities Mission and 300 were procured under the first phase of FAME. An additional 841 buses were obtained through FAME II, and BMTC expects another 80 electric buses soon. This ongoing effort is a testament to Karnataka’s commitment to sustainable transport.
In addition to expanding its electric fleet, BMTC is leasing 320 air-conditioned (A/C) electric buses to replace older Volvo vehicles, further enhancing passenger comfort and reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, the corporation plans to introduce 120 midibuses and 10 double-decker electric buses, which will serve to optimize routes and accommodate the increasing passenger demand.
A Sustainable Future
The push for electric buses in Bengaluru is not just about reducing the city’s carbon footprint; it is also about improving the quality of public transport. With the PM E-DRIVE scheme supporting this transition, Karnataka’s vision of a greener, more efficient transportation system is within reach. The integration of electric buses into Bengaluru’s public transport network is expected to make a substantial impact on air quality, reduce fuel dependency, and provide a cleaner, more sustainable mobility solution for the residents.
As more states and cities adopt similar initiatives, the vision of a nationwide EV ecosystem for public transport seems to be becoming a reality, contributing significantly to India’s climate goals and the future of urban mobility.
