Green gains: Chandigarh's e-buses drive change
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Chandigarh: With 80 electric buses now cruising across the Tricity, Chandigarh's green transport initiative is not just eco-friendly—it's a hit with commuters. Data from the Transport Department reveals a surge in ridership, especially on the ISBT-43 to Khuda Ali Sher route, which alone carries over 5,000 passengers daily.
The top five electric bus routes are clocking more than 2,000 daily riders each, showing strong public adoption. Route 23A (ISBT-43 to Khuda Ali Sher) leads the pack with 5,060 passengers, followed by Route 17 (ISBT-43 to Behlana) with 3,356 passengers. Route 551 (ISBT-43 to PGI) sees 2,990 daily commuters, while Route 206 (ISBT-43 to IT Park) and Route 28 (Manimajra to New Maloya Colony) round out the top five with 2,528 and 2,126 passengers, respectively.
The city's fleet of 80 e-buses was rolled out in two phases—40 buses in November 2021 and another 40 in October 2022. Operated by private firms, the buses cost ₹59.98/km and ₹44.99/km respectively, significantly lower than the ₹75/km cost of diesel buses.
Beyond cost savings, the environmental impact is impressive. Since their launch, the e-buses have saved 3,310 kilolitres of diesel and prevented 8,740 tons of carbon emissions till April 29, 2025 — a major win for clean air and sustainable mobility.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Total revenue generated from electric vehicles in 2024-2025 stands at Rs 15.33 crore (approx).
As passenger numbers climb and emissions drop, Chandigarh's electric bus network is proving that smart transport can be both efficient and eco-conscious.
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