GUWAHATI: Guwahati and its surrounding areas are set to embark on an environmentally friendly New Year from the Assam Government in the form of a fleet of 200 electric buses.
The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) is entrusted with operating these eco-conscious vehicles. The decision to procure these electric buses from Tata and Olectra stems from a commitment to reduce air pollution in the city, especially given the environmental concerns associated with diesel-fueled buses.
Tata and Olectra have commenced the phased delivery of these electric buses. ASTC has already received 60 out of the 200 electric buses ordered and anticipates the remaining deliveries by December this year.
The corporation plans to initiate bus operations in January 2024. These electric buses are a welcome addition to Guwahati's transportation network, which already includes a fleet of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses operating within the city and its outskirts.
Electric buses are an eco-friendly alternative, but they are primarily designed for shorter commuting distances due to charging limitations. As such, the 200 electric buses will serve Guwahati and its nearby areas exclusively. To support this initiative, ASTC will establish dedicated charging stations at five strategic locations: Jagiroad, Baihata Chariali, Mirza, ISBT at Betkuchi in Guwahati, and the ASTC Workshop at Rupnagar in Guwahati.