Telangana to Transition 3,000 RTC Diesel Buses to EVs in Two Years

Introduction to the Electric Transition

In a significant step toward reducing air pollution, Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has announced a comprehensive plan to replace diesel-run RTC buses, cabs, and autorickshaws with electric vehicles (EVs) within the limits of the Outer Ring Road (ORR). This move is part of the state’s larger initiative to make Hyderabad a pollution-free city.

3,000 RTC Diesel Buses to Go Electric

The Telangana government will replace 3,000 diesel buses operated by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) with electric buses over the next two years. This transition will be carried out with support from the Central government. The Chief Minister emphasized that diesel-run buses would no longer operate within ORR limits once the transformation is complete.

By adopting electric buses, Telangana aims to reduce the carbon footprint significantly and contribute to cleaner air in Hyderabad. The Telangana electric buses transition will play a vital role in making the city eco-friendly.

Focus on Diesel-Run Autos and Cabs

In addition to buses, Chief Minister Reddy directed the transport minister and commissioner to replace diesel-run autorickshaws and cabs operating within the ORR limits. The government plans to introduce schemes enabling auto drivers to purchase electric autos, ensuring a smooth and financially viable transition. Similar schemes will eventually apply to cab operators.

This approach ensures that small-scale drivers and operators are not adversely affected by the shift to EVs, making the Telangana electric buses transition a people-friendly initiative.

Policies to Combat Air Pollution

The Chief Minister reiterated the importance of implementing strict policies to make Hyderabad pollution-free. Transport authorities have been instructed to enforce regulations that ban heavily polluting vehicles.

Key measures include:

• Prohibiting vehicles causing significant pollution.
• Scrapping vehicles older than 15 years.
• Promoting EV adoption to minimize emissions.

These policies aim to complement the Telangana electric buses transition, creating a more sustainable urban transport system.

Role of the Transport Department

The Telangana Transport Department is expected to play a critical role in executing this transition. Addressing officials during the “Praja Palana Vijayotsava Sabha” at Shilparamam on December 5, Chief Minister Reddy highlighted the department’s responsibility in ensuring that pollution control measures are effectively implemented.

The Telangana electric buses transition will require active coordination between state authorities, central government agencies, and private stakeholders to achieve the ambitious targets set for the next two years.

Impact of Electric Vehicles on Hyderabad

Replacing diesel-run vehicles with electric ones offers several advantages:

1. Reduction in Air Pollution: Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, significantly improving air quality.
2. Lower Operating Costs: EVs are more cost-effective in the long run due to reduced fuel and maintenance expenses.
3. Boost to Sustainable Development: This transition aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promotes environmentally responsible growth.

The Telangana electric buses transition is a significant milestone in Hyderabad’s journey toward a cleaner, greener future.

Conclusion

Telangana’s ambitious plan to replace 3,000 RTC diesel buses, along with diesel-run autos and cabs, with electric vehicles underscores the state’s commitment to combat air pollution and promote sustainability. By implementing supportive policies and ensuring financial security for vehicle operators, the state is setting an example for eco-friendly urban development.

The Telangana electric buses transition is not just a step toward reducing emissions but also a promise for a healthier and more sustainable Hyderabad.