Patna: Public transport in Patna is set for a major transition as the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) prepares to replace all 100 CNG city buses with electric buses under the Centre’s PM e-Bus scheme.
The move is expected to strengthen urban transport services while reducing emissions from the city’s public transport network. BSRTC’s Bankipur division is slated to receive 150 electric buses, of which 100 will replace the existing CNG fleet operating on six city routes.
The remaining 50 buses will be deployed on routes connecting Patna with nearby urban centres, including Bihta, Bihar Sharif and Hajipur.
Operations Expected to Begin Next Month
According to transport officials, the new electric buses are expected to begin operations next month.
The deployment will mark a significant expansion of electric public transport in the state capital and surrounding areas. BSRTC plans to integrate the additional buses into its existing city transport network, improving service frequency and passenger convenience.
Relief for Commuters on Key Routes
At present, BSRTC operates 25 buses on routes linking Patna with Bihta, Bihar Sharif and Hajipur. These include 20 CNG buses and five electric buses.
Limited fleet availability often results in long waiting times, particularly for passengers travelling to Bihar Sharif and Bihta. Officials expect the addition of 50 new electric buses to reduce waiting periods and improve service reliability on these routes.
Environmental Benefits
The transition to electric buses is also expected to support efforts to improve air quality in Patna.
Authorities had earlier phased out diesel buses from city operations to reduce pollution caused by vehicle emissions. Electric buses produce no tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner alternative for urban public transport.
Officials say the shift will help create a more sustainable transport system while meeting the growing demand for public mobility in Patna and neighbouring towns.
