Hyderabad is preparing for a transformative step in urban mobility with the planned induction of 2,000 electric buses across the metropolitan area. The move, driven by two Telangana-based firms that succeeded in the central government tender, aims to curb air pollution, lower operational costs, and modernise the city’s ageing diesel fleet. This initiative is expected to enhance commuter comfort while promoting sustainable transport solutions.Â
Under the PM E-Drive scheme, EV Trans Private Limited and Greencell Mobility have been selected to supply 1,085 low-floor and 915 standard-floor electric buses respectively. These buses will be leased to the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) on a per-kilometre rental basis. Officials noted that discussions are ongoing to finalise rental rates, reflecting the government’s effort to optimise costs while ensuring high service quality. Currently, the majority of Hyderabad’s bus fleet relies on diesel, with many vehicles surpassing their operational lifespan. A senior TSRTC official highlighted that the shift to electric buses will address long-standing commuter grievances regarding emissions and noise, while also reducing fuel expenses. “Introducing a green fleet is not just an environmental step but also an investment in better service standards and operational efficiency,” the official said.
The initiative is part of a broader national drive to electrify urban public transport in cities with populations above four million. Alongside Hyderabad, nine major urban centres, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Pune, are participating in similar tenders, collectively targeting 10,900 electric buses nationwide. Experts note that large-scale adoption of electric buses could significantly lower urban greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to India’s climate commitments. From a long-term perspective, the Telangana Rising Vision Document–2047 envisages a fully green public transport fleet by 2039. City planners emphasise that gradual deployment of e-buses will also allow TSRTC to reassign older diesel vehicles to district routes, ensuring wider geographic coverage while transitioning towards sustainability.
Urban mobility specialists stress that Hyderabad’s move can serve as a model for other mid-to-large Indian cities aiming to integrate low-emission solutions without compromising operational efficiency. As the negotiations on cost and deployment strategies conclude, citizens can anticipate a cleaner, quieter, and more comfortable commuting experience in Hyderabad. While implementation challenges remain, the city’s focus on sustainable transport underscores a commitment to climate-resilient, inclusive urban planning.
Hyderabad Introduces 2000 Electric Buses To Cut Pollution And Modernise Fleet
