Uttar Pradesh is set to launch electric double-decker buses on the high-traffic Lucknow–Gorakhpur route, making it the first intercity deployment of such transport in the state. The new fleet, operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC), marks a pivotal moment in the state’s clean mobility transition. While Lucknow already operates electric double-deckers for intra-city travel, this intercity rollout demonstrates a significant leap in scaling electric public transportation beyond city limits.
In its first phase, 20 electric double-decker buses are being introduced, four of which will service the Lucknow–Gorakhpur corridor. These buses offer a capacity of 65 passengers—substantially higher than the conventional 52-seater diesel buses—addressing the heavy demand on this busy route. With an electric range of 150–200 kilometres per charge, the buses are tailored to manage the entire intercity stretch without requiring interim recharging. Charging stations are being strategically planned along the route to ensure uninterrupted operations. Beyond environmental benefits, the electric transition is also expected to deliver economic gains. Electric buses cost significantly less to operate than their diesel counterparts, a fact that could translate into reduced fare prices for passengers. This makes the service not only greener but also more accessible to daily and budget-conscious travellers.
The project aligns with the broader national mission to electrify public transport and reduce the carbon footprint of mobility. The adoption of intercity electric buses is a critical step towards achieving net-zero urban transport in India, particularly as Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities witness a surge in travel demand. UPSRTC has confirmed that procurement is already in progress, with the buses expected to hit the roads shortly. These buses are expected to redefine intercity travel norms, merging comfort, affordability, and eco-conscious design in one package. The double-deckers are being designed to accommodate not just more passengers but also better safety and comfort features. Innovations in design are aimed at ensuring thermal comfort, lower vibrations, and a smoother ride compared to traditional models, addressing a common challenge in long-distance road travel.
Urban mobility experts say this model could become a benchmark for other Indian states, provided the integration of charging infrastructure keeps pace with deployment. The real success of this initiative, they argue, will depend on consistent operational efficiency, passenger feedback, and the ability of infrastructure planners to maintain battery performance and turnaround time. As India pivots toward electric mobility to cut emissions and reduce dependency on fossil fuels, Uttar Pradesh’s intercity electric bus initiative stands as a beacon for future-ready transport. Whether this new model sets the standard for wider adoption remains to be seen, but the state’s commitment to decarbonising public travel is now unmistakably on track.
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