Sustainable Future: Gadkari’s pilot project to transform public transport in India

Revolutionising the Indian public transport system, Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, has introduced a pilot project in Nagpur. In order to tackle India’s greatest concern, pollution, a bus with airplane-like seating along with a bus hostess will be launched. The buses will be equipped with 132 seats and will travel 49 km wherein, the buses will stop at every 40km and get flash charged for about 40 seconds. India is ranked third in terms of pollution globally and there is a growing need for cost effective transport and non polluting energy sources implemented in operating transportation. This project will reshape how the Indian society experiences bus travel. 

In an interview with Times Now, Nitin Gadkari stated that the buses will be 30% cheaper than traditional bus transport in India. The operating expenses of diesel buses are ₹115/km, while those of AC electric buses are ₹41 and those of non-AC buses with subsidies are ₹37. Whereas, the cost projections for the reformed buses will be ₹30-40/km while also providing all amenities like air conditioning, a bus hostess, comfortable seats, and food and beverages. Additionally, Indian oil is installing 300 ethanol pumps which is a better option to make use of as it is half the price of petrol. 

The construction equipment and machines will run on 50% ethanol and 50% CNG. This has economic and environmental benefits, particularly towards the farmers. Nagpur is a district known for its agriculture and the use of ethanol and CNG will aid in reducing pollution and providing a healthier farming environment. Furthermore, to address the issue of waste in cities like the capital of India, Delhi, the waste landfills and sewage water will be utilised to generate power for the production of bio CNG, hydrogen or bio LNG. 

Nitin Gadkari's pilot project is a positive step towards modernizing the public transport system in india. Introducing comfort, affordability, and innovation will transform how the society in india views bus transport as a daily commute and it will promote the use of public transport in india 

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nitin-gadkari-s-pilot-project-for-nagpur-air-plane-like-seating-bus-hostess-101719978395522.html