India’s New Plan to Add Over 38,000 Electric Buses by 2029
The Union Cabinet of India has approved a new scheme called ‘PM-eBus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism’ with a budget of Rs 3,435.33 crore. This initiative aims to deploy over 38,000 electric buses (e-buses) from 2024 to 2029, supporting their operation for up to 12 years.
Why This Scheme is Important
Currently, most buses operated by Public Transport Authorities (PTAs) run on diesel or CNG, which are harmful to the environment. E-buses, on the other hand, are eco-friendly and have lower operational costs. However, PTAs face challenges in procuring and operating e-buses due to their high upfront costs and lower revenue from operations.
How the Scheme Works
The scheme ensures timely payments through a dedicated fund. If PTAs default on payments, CESL, the implementing agency, will make necessary payments from the scheme funds, which will later be recouped by the PTAs, states, or union territories (UTs). This initiative encourages private-sector participation and aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption.
Benefits for Public Transport Authorities
The scheme will provide benefits to all PTAs in states and UTs that opt for it, facilitating the adoption of e-buses and contributing to a cleaner environment.
Doubts Revealed
Union Cabinet -: The Union Cabinet is a group of top leaders in the Indian government, including the Prime Minister and other important ministers. They make big decisions for the country.
PM-eBus Sewa-Payment Security Mechanism -: This is a special plan by the Indian government to make sure that money is available to pay for electric buses. It helps to solve money problems that might stop the buses from being used.
Rs 3,435.33 crore -: This is a large amount of money, specifically 3,435.33 crore rupees. One crore is equal to 10 million, so this is a very big budget.
Electric Buses -: Electric buses are buses that run on electricity instead of petrol or diesel. They are better for the environment because they don’t produce harmful gases.
Public Transport Authorities (PTAs) -: PTAs are organizations that manage public transportation like buses and trains in cities and towns. They make sure people can travel easily and safely.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions -: These are gases like carbon dioxide that trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, making the planet warmer. Reducing these gases helps fight climate change.
Fossil Fuel Consumption -: This means using fuels like petrol, diesel, and coal that come from the remains of ancient plants and animals. Using less of these fuels is good for the environment.