The Ministry of Heavy Industries has recently received a formal proposal from the Government of Karnataka requesting the allocation of electric buses under the centrally sponsored PM E-Drive initiative. This significant move reflects Karnataka’s commitment to upgrading its urban public transportation system with cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable mobility solutions.
Karnataka’s Proposal for Electric Buses
Karnataka Transport Minister Shri Ramalinga Reddy submitted the request, emphasizing the urgent need to enhance public transport infrastructure across the state’s major cities. As urbanization intensifies, improving eco-friendly transport options has become a priority to reduce pollution and traffic congestion in urban clusters such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi-Dharwad, and others.
Positive Response from Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy, responded promptly to Karnataka’s proposal by engaging in detailed discussions with senior Ministry officials. He reassured the Karnataka Government of the Centre’s full support and cooperation in ensuring that electric buses are allocated efficiently and swiftly.
Shri Kumaraswamy stated,
“I am committed to guaranteeing that Karnataka gets full support from the Government of India. Guided by the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, we are revolutionizing public transportation throughout the country. Karnataka will surely be allocated buses under the PM E-Drive initiative.”
Phased and Prioritized Allocation Underway
The Ministry confirmed that the allocation process is already underway, with Karnataka slated to receive electric buses in a phased and prioritized manner. This approach aims to enable smooth integration of electric buses into existing city transport fleets, while addressing logistical and infrastructural challenges.
About the PM E-Drive Initiative
Introduced under the forward-thinking leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the PM E-Drive initiative aims to procure and deploy 14,028 electric buses in nine major Indian cities. This scheme, backed by a sanctioned budget of ₹10,900 crore for the duration from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026, emphasizes:
- Expanding urban electric bus fleets
- Reducing vehicular pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
- Promoting sustainable public transportation
- Strengthening related infrastructure such as charging stations, bus depots, and maintenance systems
Infrastructure and Implementation Discussions
Besides allocating buses, the Union and State governments are actively collaborating on crucial infrastructure development to support the new electric bus fleets. This includes installing fast and efficient charging stations, upgrading bus depots to handle electric vehicles, and establishing specialized maintenance systems designed specifically for electric buses.
Officials from both sides are exploring various implementation models to guarantee a rapid and efficient rollout of electric buses in the identified urban clusters across Karnataka.
Vision for a Cleaner and Smarter Transport Future
Shri Kumaraswamy highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative, stating:
“We aren’t simply handing out buses — we are creating a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive transportation future for all Indians. Karnataka Transport Minister Shri Ramalinga Reddy has my complete support, as does the entire Ministry.”
This vision aligns with India’s ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy technologies in transportation, contributing to a healthier environment and better quality of urban life.
Commitment of the Ministry of Heavy Industries
The Ministry of Heavy Industries is fully dedicated to assisting all state governments, including Karnataka, in achieving this transformative goal. Through close collaboration with all stakeholders, the Ministry strives to guarantee the effective rollout of the PM E-Drive initiative and fast-track India’s shift towards sustainable urban transportation. Karnataka Transport Minister Shri Ramalinga Reddy has my complete support, as does the entire Ministry.
In summary, Karnataka’s proactive request for electric buses under the PM E-Drive initiative and the positive response from Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy mark a significant step towards revolutionizing public transport in the state. With the Centre’s support and a clear implementation roadmap, Karnataka is poised to become a leading example of clean and modern urban mobility in India.
This initiative not only promises greener cities but also better accessibility and convenience for millions of daily commuters, reinforcing India’s commitment to a sustainable future.
