The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has received confirmation of the Centre’s approval of INR 130.5 million for the establishment of infrastructure for the city’s e-bus project. The funds, amounting to INR 600 million, have been allocated for the construction of an e-bus depot, whereas another INR 700.5 million has been earmarked for power supply and a power sub-station for the depot. It is noteworthy that this allocation of funds occurred in March, before the enforcement of the model code of conduct.
Centre Sanctions 50 E-Buses for Nashik: As part of the “PM e-bus Seva” scheme, the Centre has sanctioned 50 e-buses for the NMC. These approvals were granted before the enforcement of the code of conduct for the Lok Sabha polls. In addition to the bus sanctions, INR 130.5 million has also been approved by the Centre for infrastructure development related to the e-bus project.
Expedited Completion Urged: To ensure timely delivery of the e-bus project, the government has instructed NMC officials to expedite the construction of the electric bus depot and power supply. It is anticipated that the NMC will receive the 50 e-buses from the Centre by April 2025.
Private Companies Facilitating E-bus Procurement: Under the PM e-bus Seva scheme, the procurement of buses will be facilitated through private companies. These companies will be responsible for the operation, maintenance, and management of the e-buses for a duration of 12 years. Payments to these agencies will be made on a per-kilometer basis.
Cost Sharing and Grant: For the 12-year tenure, the Centre will grant INR 24 per kilometer to the NMC, with the remaining expenses to be covered by the local civic body. This cost-sharing model ensures cooperation between the Centre and the NMC for the successful implementation of the e-bus project.
Private Firm Selected through Tender Process: A firm from Haryana has been selected by the Centre for Nashik through a competitive tender process. This private company will be responsible for the procurement, operation, and maintenance of the electric buses for the Nashik Municipal Corporation.
Current Bus Operations by NMC: At present, the NMC operates a city bus service through its transport wing, Nashik Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (NMPML). The approval of funds and the sanctioned number of e-buses for Nashik’s e-bus project indicate significant progress in the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions. The participating private companies in the scheme will play a crucial role in effectively managing the operations and maintenance of the e-buses, benefiting the citizens and the environment. With the upcoming completion of the e-bus depot and power supply, Nashik is on track to witness a remarkable transformation in public transportation.
