Punjab’s Big Push for Electric Public Transport
Chandigarh : Punjab is preparing for a major leap toward clean mobility. The state government will soon introduce 447 electric buses across Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Patiala, and SAS Nagar (Mohali). Local Government Minister Dr. Ravjot Singh announced the plan during the Punjab Conclave on E-Mobility and Sustainable Public Transportation, held in Chandigarh on World EV Day.
The new fleet will be supported by modern charging infrastructure to ensure smooth operation and efficiency. Dr. Singh said the initiative reflects Punjab’s commitment to sustainable development and improved urban transport.
“Punjab’s cities are engines of growth. Their sustainable development is central to our vision. Transitioning from diesel to electric transport will not only reduce pollution but also generate new opportunities,” Dr. Singh stated.
Women Drive Change Through E-Autos
Highlighting a success story, the minister noted that 200 women drivers have joined Amritsar’s e-auto fleet since March 2024. The transition has created a model for inclusive growth by boosting driver incomes and providing safer, cleaner commuting options.
“Electric autos have shown us the way forward. They have cut emissions, empowered women, and reshaped local transport,” Dr. Singh added.
The conclave gathered city leaders, policymakers, experts, and e-auto drivers to explore ways of building equitable and clean mobility systems. Amritsar, which has already seen an encouraging rise in e-auto adoption, was presented as a case study for replication across the state.
Roadmap for Punjab’s Electric Bus Rollout
Kulwant Singh, Director of the Department of Local Government, stressed the state’s integrated vision. He recalled the conversion of 1,200 diesel autos into electric vehicles in Amritsar, which was achieved through strong policy backing and active community participation.
“Building on Amritsar’s success, we are now accelerating the electric bus rollout. Route rationalisation, charging points, and modernisation are being carefully planned by the Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company (PMIDC) in coordination with the state,” Kulwant Singh said.
He emphasised that precision, pace, and passion will drive Punjab’s clean mobility agenda forward. The government aims to ensure that the electric buses not only improve public transport but also cut down urban air pollution.
Sustainable Mobility for a Greener Punjab
The introduction of electric buses marks a significant step in aligning with India’s broader climate goals. It will also reduce reliance on fossil fuels while improving transport efficiency in Punjab’s busiest cities.
Officials said the plan reflects the state’s intent to balance economic growth, environmental protection, and public convenience. With reliable charging networks and modernised routes, Punjab hopes to create a replicable model for other states.
The conclave concluded with calls for continued collaboration between government agencies, citizens, and industry stakeholders. Experts stressed that sustainable mobility must be inclusive, people-focused, and technologically advanced to succeed.