Bhopal Gets 10 New Electric Buses From August 24

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, will introduce 10 new electric buses on August 24, increasing its e-bus fleet from 20 to 30. The new buses will operate on the existing three routes, aiming to reduce waiting time for passengers to 10-15 minutes.

The expansion of the e-bus fleet will improve connectivity between key areas such as Kolar Road, Bawadiya Kalan, Bairagarh, MP Nagar, and the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT). All three routes pass through MP Nagar, making it easier for office-goers and students to commute.

The electric buses currently cover major areas like New Market, Salaiya, Rohit Nagar, Ashoka Garden, Subhash Nagar, Kohefiza, and Peer Gate. The minimum fare for these buses ranges from ₹6 to ₹7, while the maximum fare is ₹40. The daily ridership of the electric bus service has been crossing 10,000 passengers.

The three routes on which these buses operate are B35, B36, and B37. Route B35 runs from Chirayu Hospital in Bairagarh to Aakriti Eco City in Salaiya, covering areas like Lalghati, Hamidia Hospital, and MP Nagar. Route B36 connects Coach Factory with Kolar Road, passing through Bhopal railway station and Ashoka Garden. Route B37 runs from the Bairagarh e-bus depot to ISBT, connecting areas like Lalghati, Hamidia Hospital, and Malviya Nagar.

The introduction of these new electric buses is a significant step towards improving public transportation in Bhopal. The city has been facing a public transport crisis, with its city bus fleet falling from over 350 to around 60 in just four years.

One of the notable features of these electric buses is the inclusion of hydraulic doors, which will help passengers with disabilities board and exit easily. Wheelchair and tricycle users can enter the buses through these doors without much difficulty, and a dedicated space opposite the hydraulic door can accommodate two wheelchairs or tricycles at a time.

This accessibility feature has been introduced in Bhopal's city buses for the first time, marking a significant improvement in the city's public transportation system. With the expansion of the e-bus fleet, Bhopal is taking a step towards providing a more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly public transportation system.

The introduction of these new electric buses is expected to have a positive impact on the city's transportation system, making it easier for commuters to travel across the city. As the city continues to expand its e-bus fleet, it is likely to see an increase in ridership, reducing the reliance on personal vehicles and contributing to a more sustainable transportation system.