New Delhi, May 16 — Karnataka is set to benefit from the Centre's flagship PM E-Drive Scheme with the allocation of electric buses to the state in a "phased and prioritised manner," Union Heavy Industries Minister H D Kumaraswamy announced on Friday.
The move follows a formal proposal submitted by the Karnataka government to the Ministry of Heavy Industries requesting the allocation of electric buses to strengthen urban public transport systems across key cities in the state.
Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy led the appeal, underlining the growing need for sustainable and efficient mobility solutions in urban areas. In response, Kumaraswamy held discussions with senior ministry officials and assured full support from the central government.
Under the scheme, over 14,000 electric buses are planned to be distributed across nine major cities. The initiative has a significant budget outlay of ₹10,900 crore and will cover a two-year period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026.
Implementation models were also reviewed to facilitate the rapid deployment of the buses across targeted urban clusters, enabling effective integration into existing public transport systems.
The PM E-Drive Scheme marks a significant push towards cleaner, greener mobility. It is aligned with India’s broader climate goals and commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector.
The move follows a formal proposal submitted by the Karnataka government to the Ministry of Heavy Industries requesting the allocation of electric buses to strengthen urban public transport systems across key cities in the state.
Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy led the appeal, underlining the growing need for sustainable and efficient mobility solutions in urban areas. In response, Kumaraswamy held discussions with senior ministry officials and assured full support from the central government.
“I will ensure that Karnataka receives all due support from the Government of India,” said Kumaraswamy.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are transforming public mobility across India. Karnataka will definitely receive buses under PM E-Drive,” he added.
Allocation Process Already Underway
The Centre has already initiated the allocation process for electric buses under the PM E-Drive Scheme, which aims to enhance sustainable public transport infrastructure in India. Karnataka will receive its share of buses in a systematic rollout based on priority.Under the scheme, over 14,000 electric buses are planned to be distributed across nine major cities. The initiative has a significant budget outlay of ₹10,900 crore and will cover a two-year period from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026.
Focus on Supporting Infrastructure
In addition to the electric buses, deliberations between the Union and Karnataka governments also touched upon supporting infrastructure development. These include establishing charging stations, bus depots, and comprehensive vehicle maintenance systems to ensure a smooth transition to electric mobility.Implementation models were also reviewed to facilitate the rapid deployment of the buses across targeted urban clusters, enabling effective integration into existing public transport systems.
The PM E-Drive Scheme marks a significant push towards cleaner, greener mobility. It is aligned with India’s broader climate goals and commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the transportation sector.
