In a significant move, the Indian federal government granted approval for a comprehensive program last Wednesday, allotting nearly $7 billion to facilitate the integration of electric buses across major cities in the nation.
The primary objective of this initiative is to curtail air pollution stemming from vehicular emissions, a key contributor to the deteriorating air quality prevalent in Indian urban areas. Additionally, it is anticipated that the widespread adoption of electric buses will contribute to a reduction in the overall carbon emissions at a national level.
The strategy will encompass a collaborative effort involving a public-private partnership. This approach would include not only the introduction of electric buses but also the establishment of essential charging infrastructure.
With escalating demand for electric buses, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consolidated these endeavors into a centralized strategy. Concurrently, he has invited manufacturers of electric buses to partake in the bidding process for government contracts.
The allocated fund amounts to 5,700 crore rupees, approximately equivalent to $7 billion US dollars. Simultaneously, the cabinet's authorization extended to seven railway projects, valued at 3250 crore rupees, aimed at enhancing connectivity and mobility across nine states.
Source: "India approves $7 bln plan for electric buses in nearly 170 cities". Reuters. 16 Aug, 2023. [Date accessed: 23 Aug, 2023]
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