Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is set to see a major transformation in its public transport system with the introduction of around 100 electric buses on city roads within the next year. This initiative forms part of the Prime Minister’s e-Bus Sewa scheme, aimed at electrifying urban bus networks to make them cleaner, greener, and more efficient.

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A Boost to Urban Mobility

Under the PM e-Bus Sewa scheme, Bhopal has secured approval for a fleet of approximately 100 electric buses, which are expected to start reaching the city by the end of the current year. These buses will be deployed across local routes, significantly modernising Bhopal’s public transport infrastructure.

This move will not only help bridge the gap in intra-city connectivity — especially as the city prepares for the launch of its metro rail service — but also boost the adoption of zero-emission vehicles in urban transit.

Context of the E-Bus Initiative

Bhopal’s current public bus services have faced operational challenges, with a notable portion of the diesel-powered fleet underutilised or out of service. The introduction of electric buses is expected to provide a modern, efficient alternative to conventional buses and support last-mile connectivity — a key requirement for integrated urban transport systems, including the upcoming metro.

Here’s what’s planned under the scheme:

• Electric buses will be procured and operated as part of a public-private partnership model, where contractors are responsible for operations and associated infrastructure.
• The buses are centrally procured by agencies such as Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), which is executing electric bus deployments across multiple cities under the national scheme.
• Operators receive financial support from the government on a per-kilometre basis, helping make electric bus operations economically viable.

Wider Reach of the Scheme

Bhopal is not the only city benefiting from the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative. Under the same scheme, other major Madhya Pradesh cities are also slated to receive electric buses — for instance, 150 e-buses for Indore and 100 for Jabalpur — further demonstrating the state’s push toward sustainable urban mobility.

Looking Ahead

The deployment of electric buses in Bhopal represents a significant step in transitioning to eco-friendly public transport. Beyond environmental benefits such as reduced emissions and quieter streets, the shift promises improved commuter experience and enhanced integration with other transport modes as the city grows.

As these buses hit the roads over the next year, they are expected to set a new standard for urban transit in Bhopal and serve as a model for other cities aiming to electrify their public transport systems under central government schemes.