The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, a landmark initiative to transform urban mobility and e-mobility in India. The scheme aims to deploy 10,000 electric buses across 169 cities on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with an estimated cost of Rs. 57,613 crore. The Central government will provide Rs. 20,000 crore as support for the scheme, which will span over 10 years.
The PM-eBus Sewa Scheme is expected to have multiple benefits for the environment, the economy, and the society. It will reduce noise and air pollution, curb carbon emissions, and enhance public transportation by increasing the share of bus-based mobility. It will also generate direct employment opportunities for 45,000 to 55,000 people and foster innovation and sustainable supply chains in the e-mobility sector.
The scheme covers cities with populations above three lakh, including Union Territory capitals, the North Eastern Region, and Hill States. It prioritizes areas without organized bus services and promotes green urban mobility initiatives such as bus priority, multimodal interchange facilities, NCMC-based Automated Fare Collection Systems, and charging infrastructure.
The scheme also provides full support for behind-the-meter power infrastructure and charging facilities for e-buses. The responsibility of running the bus services and making payments to bus operators lies with the States/Cities. The Central Government will extend support by providing subsidies as outlined in the scheme to facilitate the operation of these buses.
The PM-eBus Sewa Scheme is a visionary step towards embracing electric mobility and enhancing urban transportation in India. By leveraging the power of electric buses and promoting environmentally conscious initiatives, the scheme is set to reshape the mobility landscape, foster job creation, reduce pollution, and contribute to the nation’s journey towards a greener future.