Uttar Pradesh approves 250 electric buses to modernize public transport

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the purchase of 250 electric buses for the state’s road transport corporation at an estimated cost of ₹425.50 crore. The decision, aimed at modernising public transport and reducing environmental impact, was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday.

₹400 Crore from State Budget, Focus on Local Manufacturers
Finance Minister Suresh Khanna detailed the funding arrangement, stating that ₹400 crore will come from the state government in the 2026-27 financial year, while the remaining ₹25.50 crore will be contributed by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC). Preference will be given to Uttar Pradesh-based manufacturers during procurement to boost local industry, Khanna added.

Compliance with Air Quality Norms
The move is also a step towards meeting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) norms. Starting November 1, 2026, only CNG, electric, and BS-VI compliant vehicles will be allowed to enter Delhi. The addition of electric buses will ensure uninterrupted UPSRTC operations in the National Capital Region, Khanna explained.

Deployment on Key Routes to Reduce Pollution
The new buses will be deployed on major religious, tourist, and urban routes across the state. This is expected to reduce reliance on diesel-powered vehicles and contribute to lowering air pollution levels.

Broader Push for Women’s Welfare and Education
In another significant decision, the Cabinet approved the free transfer of 6,000 square metres of government land in Varanasi for the construction of a 500-bed working women’s hostel under the Chief Minister Shramjeevi Mahila Chhatravas Yojana. The project, fully funded by the state, is part of a broader plan to build seven such hostels across Uttar Pradesh.

Additionally, a new 112-bed women’s hostel will be constructed at Basant Mahila Mahavidyalaya in Varanasi, a constituent college of Banaras Hindu University, at a cost of ₹24.83 million. This expansion aims to improve access to higher education for female students.

These initiatives reflect the state government’s dual focus on sustainable development and social welfare.

Source: Indian Express