In a significant push for sustainable and greener transportation, the Haryana Government has launched an eco-friendly initiative in Panchkula. This initiative is already operational in Panipat and Yamunanagar districts. This will offer a cleaner and more comfortable experience to the commuters or residents.
The official launch ceremony which took place in Sector 5 bus stand, under the presence of the Haryana Assembly Speaker Gian Chand Gupta. However, his arrival was an hour behind the schedule, marking a slight delay in the beginning of the event. Despite the delay, the Speaker excitedly highlighted the benefits of the new service. “These buses are air-conditioned and have 45 seats, along with space for 18 commuters to stand. They boast impressive features like a 70,000 km estimated running capacity over 12 years, panic buttons for passenger safety, and in-built tracking systems.”, he stated.
Simultaneously, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar virtually addressed the audience from Chandigarh and launched electric bus services in both Panchkula and Karnal. He also announced a week of free rides on the electric buses in Panchkula and Karnal, with the aim to gain feedback from commuters to optimise future route planning.
Dedicated bus depot equipped with charging stations was also inaugurated to accommodate the new electric fleet. This will ensure smooth operations and efficient charging capabilities for the electric buses. Once the introductory period ends, a fare structure will be implemented and commuters have to pay Rs 10 for the first 5 kilometres with additional charges accruing every 3 kilometres.
In the beginning five buses were being introduced, operating on a single route. However, the government has plans to expand the fleet to 50 buses in the near future, significantly increasing the reach and impact of the green initiative.
Prominent figures including Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal and the General Manager of the Haryana Roadways, Panchkula, Ashok Kaushik joined the speaker during the ceremony. This collective effort underscores the government’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions.
Officials from the Transport Department revealed the routes for the electric buses. Passengers can board from the Sector 5 bus stand and proceed through Sectors 4, 11,10,14-15, and 12A, eventually reaching Singhpura via Patiala Chowk and Zirakpur. The return journey follows the same route. First bus will depart at 6:30 am from Sector 5 bus stand, the last bus will leave Singhpura at 8:45 pm.
The electric bus service marks the third public transportation system established in Panchkula, Previously, a central bus depot facilitating 150 short and long route buses was inaugurated. Additionally, 40 mini buses specifically to meet the requirements of local routes were introduced in 2020, offering convenience and accessibility to commuters.
The Chief Minister further emphasised the advanced features of the new electric buses including 45 passenger seats, USB charging ports, emergency button for passengers safety. Notably, on a single charge a bus can travel around 200 kilometres ensuring efficient operation throughout the day.
Khattar also highlighted the growth in public transport infrastructure with the bus fleet expanding from 3,083 to 4651 vehicles. Additionally, he proudly announced the implementation of an e-ticketing project, specifically designed for the commuters of electric bus service.
