Bhopal to get electric bus services in September, October; fares slashed to Rs 2 per kilometre
| Date :22-Apr-2025 |
Manoj Rathore MIC Member Rohit Yadav, Manager Administration.
Staff Reporter :
State accelerates green mobility: Electric buses to transform urban commute in six cities
Bhopal residents can look forward to a significant improvement in their daily commuting with the introduction of electric buses slated for September and October. This greener and more economical public transport option emerges after reduced interest in previous bus tenders, which resulted in the discontinuation of the red buses. The new electric fleet signals a positive shift, offering greater ease of transportation for the city’s inhabitants.
In a landmark move toward sustainable urban development, Madhya Pradesh is set to roll out electric bus (e-bus) services across six major cities Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Ujjain, and Sagar starting September-October 2025. Approved under the Central Government’s ambitious scheme to deploy 6,500 e-buses across 88 Indian cities, the state has secured 582 buses, promising to redefine public transportation with eco-friendly, affordable, and efficient mobility solutions.
The initiative, hailed as a transformative leap by officials, aims to address growing traffic congestion, air pollution, and the need for inclusive connectivity. “This initiative will be a game-changer for our citizens,” asserted Rohit Yadav, Manager of Administration. “With fares as low as Rs 2 per kilometre, these e-buses will democratise access to reliable transport, linking hospitals, universities, and workplaces seamlessly.”
Echoing this optimism, Manoj Rathore, Member of the Mayor-in-Council (MIC), emphasised strategic integration: “Our city-specific mobility plans ensure these buses complement metros, autos, and cycling routes. This holistic approach will slash travel times and enhance daily convenience for millions.”
Madhya Pradesh’s allocation includes 472 midi e-buses (26-seater) and 110 mini e-buses (21-seater), tailored to navigate varied urban landscapes. Indore, the state’s largest city, will receive 150 buses, followed by Bhopal (100),
Jabalpur (90), Gwalior (90), Ujjain (72), and Sagar (80). The fare structure pegged at Rs 2/km is 30-40% cheaper than existing diesel buses, making public transport accessible to low-income groups. Private firm Green Cell Mobility Private Limited will operate and maintain the fleet under the Global Capability Centre (GCC) model. The company will receive Rs 58.14 per kilometre per bus, with the Centre contributing Rs 22 and the state Rs 36.14. A key mandate requires each bus to cover 180 km daily, ensuring optimal utilisation. The Centre will also subsidise operational costs for 12 years, a first-of-its-kind commitment in India’s e-mobility sector. A Rs 58 crore investment will establish 10 depots across the six cities: Bhopal: Bairagarh and Kasturba Nagar (Rs 14 crore), Indore: Nayta Mundla and Chandan Nagar (Rs 6 crore) ,Gwalior, Jabalpur: Two depots each and Ujjain, Sagar: One depot each. Funded through a 60:40 Central-State ratio, these facilities will house maintenance units and driver amenities. Simultaneously, the Centre will install nine charging stations (Rs 60 crore) with 41 km of high-tension power lines. Indore, Bhopal, and Gwalior will host two stations each.
