Telangana soon to Introduce Eco-Friendly Electric Buses for Commuters in Hyderabad
In a promising stride towards sustainable urban transportation, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) is gearing up to roll out its fleet of eco-friendly, air-conditioned electric buses for the convenience of commuters in Hyderabad. The TSRTC, known for its innovative initiatives, has laid out a comprehensive plan to introduce a total of 1,300 electric buses in the Greater Hyderabad region in a phased manner. As a significant milestone, the corporation is set to deploy the first batch of 25 electric buses imminently.
VC Sajjanar, the Managing Director of TSRTC, conducted a firsthand evaluation of the prototype of the electric AC bus at the prestigious Bus Bhavan. During the inspection, Sajjanar engaged with officials to gain insights into the various passenger-centric amenities and facilities incorporated within the bus.
Sajjanar expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Corporation is on the brink of unveiling eco-friendly electric buses in Hyderabad. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to sustainable and environment-friendly transportation solutions.” Olectra, a key player in the electric vehicle domain, has played a pivotal role in this endeavour by placing an order for 550 electric buses through Greentech Limited (OGL). Out of this impressive number, 500 buses are slated to grace the bustling streets of Hyderabad, with an additional 50 earmarked for the Vijayawada route, complementing the existing 10 electric buses already in operation.
The TSRTC’s vision extends beyond just a handful of electric buses; their ambition is to gradually transition the entire Hyderabad fleet to electric. “Our plan is to have all-electric buses operating in Hyderabad in the near future,” announced Sajjanar with unwavering resolve. The initial phase of this transformation will witness the introduction of 500 electric buses to the city’s transit system during the current fiscal year.
Among these buses, 50 boast air-conditioning, providing a comfortable and refreshing travel experience. The remaining buses are designed to cater to different passenger preferences, including ordinary and metro express services. Olectra is at the helm of supplying these buses to TSRTC, following a Gross Cost Contract (GCC) framework. In addition to the ongoing rollout, discussions are already underway for the procurement of an impressive 800 more electric buses, further solidifying the commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
The newly introduced AC electric buses are a blend of technological innovation and passenger convenience. Spanning a length of 12 meters, these vehicles house a host of high-tech features powered by electricity. With a seating capacity of 35, passengers are treated to amenities such as mobile charging ports, seat belts for enhanced safety, and strategically placed CCTV cameras ensuring security throughout the journey. For added safety and precision, a reverse parking assistance camera has been seamlessly integrated, aiding drivers in maneuvering the bus safely.
The buses are equipped with four LED boards displaying route and destination details, facilitating a seamless travel experience for passengers. Crucially, the safety of commuters remains paramount. A Fire Detection Suppression System (FDSS) has been thoughtfully integrated into the buses, adding an extra layer of security. In terms of range, these electric marvels can travel up to 225 kilometers on a single charge. Charging times have been optimized, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours for a full charge.
Safety and convenience intertwine seamlessly within these buses. Each seat is equipped with a panic button, ensuring that passengers can promptly alert authorities in case of any distress. Furthermore, a robust vehicle tracking system has been implemented, allowing both authorities and commuters to monitor the real-time location of the buses.
As the TSRTC embarks on this monumental shift towards sustainable transportation, the introduction of these eco-friendly electric buses marks a significant step forward. Hyderabad’s streets are set to witness a transformation that not only enhances the quality of public transportation but also contributes to a greener and more sustainable future.