LUDHIANA: "PM-eBus Sewa Scheme", launched on 16th August, 2023, aims to augment city bus operations in urban areas with Central Assistance of Rs.20, 000 crore for deploying 10, 000 electric buses on Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. Under this Scheme, all the 4 eligible cities of Punjab including Amritsar, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar have participated in the Scheme.
This has been stated by the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs Tokhan Sahu in an answer to questions on `Implementation and progress of pm- PM-eBus Sewa Scheme in Punjab’ asked by MP (Rajya Sabha) from Ludhiana Sanjeev Arora in the Budget Session of Rajya Sabha.
In a statement today, Arora said the Minister further answered that a total of 347 e-buses, have been sanctioned to the 4 participating cities of Punjab namely Amritsar (100), Ludhiana (100), Jalandhar (97) and Patiala (50). Under PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, a PPP operator/ Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) procures, maintains and operates the e- buses on Gross Cost Contract (GCC) model.
The Minister further mentioned in his answer that a total of Rs.45.11 crore has been sanctioned to the State Government of Punjab for the development of associated infrastructure which includes Civil Depot infrastructure and Behind- The-Meter Power infrastructure so far.
Under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme, Central Assistance is provided, inter-alia, for the development of Behind-The-Meter Power infrastructure. However, establishment of charging stations rests with GCC operator. GCC Operator establish the charging station after signing of concession agreement and depot hand over by the Public Transport Authority. GCC operator deploys chargers based on the fleet size and design of electric buses.
Meanwhile, Arora said, "The sanctioning of 347 e-buses for Punjab under the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme is a significant step towards sustainable and modern urban transport. This initiative will not only enhance public transport infrastructure but also contribute to a greener environment. I look forward to the swift implementation of the scheme to benefit the people of Ludhiana and other participating cities."