Patna: Bihar is preparing to expand its electric public transport network, with more than 114 new electric buses planned across 690 identified routes in Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur, Purnia and several other districts.
The Transport Department has set a target of starting operations by December 2026. The proposed network is intended to provide an additional public transport option while supporting efforts to reduce pollution and dependence on petrol and diesel.
The number of buses and their routes will be determined according to factors including road conditions, population and passenger demand in different areas.
Routes To Connect Villages And District Centres
The proposed electric bus network will not be restricted to major cities. The plan also focuses on connecting urban centres with surrounding areas and improving public transport links between villages, smaller settlements and district headquarters.
According to the department, routes have been identified based on public transport requirements in different districts. Regular bus services on these routes are expected to make travel to district headquarters and other important locations more convenient.
Small And Large Electric Buses Planned
Both small and large electric buses will be included in the proposed fleet.
The type of bus deployed on a particular route will depend on road conditions, population and passenger requirements. Larger buses can be deployed on routes with higher passenger demand, while smaller buses can serve routes with relatively lower demand or narrower roads.
Operations Targeted By December
The Transport Department has set December 2026 as the target for starting electric bus operations.
Preparatory work is underway, including planning for bus availability, charging infrastructure and the requirements associated with daily operations. The final arrangements will be developed according to the needs of the identified routes.
Focus On Cleaner Public Transport
The expansion of electric buses is also aimed at reducing dependence on petrol and diesel in public transportation.
The department expects greater use of public transport to provide an alternative to private vehicles. Increased use of buses could also help reduce pressure from private vehicles on roads and lower fuel consumption.
Bihar Has Over 5.13 Lakh Registered Electric Vehicles
Transport Department data shows that Bihar has 5,13,436 registered electric vehicles across different categories.
Electric rickshaws account for the largest share, with 3,37,116 vehicles, representing 65.66% of the state’s registered electric vehicles.
Electric motorcycles and scooters form the second-largest category, with 92,895 vehicles registered in the state.
Bihar also has 61,983 passenger three-wheelers and 4,093 electric goods three-wheelers.
The state has 3,847 electric motor cars and 3,098 electric mopeds. The data also records 27 registered electric buses.
The proposed addition of more than 114 buses across 690 routes would significantly expand the existing electric bus presence and broaden the reach of electric public transport across Bihar.
