The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is set to introduce 320 air-conditioned electric buses by the end of May, after months of delay caused by a lack of charging facilities. The old Volvo buses operating on Vajra city routes and the Vayu Vajra services to Kempegowda International Airport will ultimately be replaced by the new fleet, which is currently being tried out.
OHM Global Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, is supplying the electric buses on a Gross Cost Contract (GCC) basis. Under the agreement, each bus will run 250 km daily, a total of 87,500 km per year, and BMTC would compensate the operator ₹65.8 per km.
A senior BMTC official said, “This is the first time air-conditioned electric buses are being inducted into the BMTC fleet.” “We had planned to bring them in earlier, but it took longer than expected to set up the charging infrastructure, especially at the airport premises. The airport construction may not be complete for another 15 days. Nevertheless, we are confident that we will roll out fully by the end of May.”.
Due to their low floor construction, the 13-meter-long buses are more convenient for people with impairments to use. A more accessible ride is provided by the retractable ramps on every bus, making boarding easier.
BMTC has assigned four depots—Depot 7 in Subhashnagar, Depot 13 in Katriguppe, Depot 18 in Whitefield, and Depot 25 in HSR Layout—to manage the new fleet’s operations.
The new buses were welcomed by the passengers who took part in the test runs. Compared to the old diesel-engined models, most highlighted the extra comfort and eco-friendliness.
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