Chandigarh, October 23: The approval of 328 additional electric buses under the PM-e-Bus Service Scheme by the Government of India marks a significant milestone in Chandigarh’s journey towards becoming a carbon-free city. With this, the total number of e-buses approved for the city has increased to 428.

The Governor of Punjab and Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, stated that this major approval is the outcome of sustained efforts by the Chandigarh Administration and continuous engagement with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to transition the city’s bus fleet to electric mobility.

Shri Kataria emphasized that it is crucial to convert Chandigarh’s entire bus fleet to electric buses in a phased manner so that the ‘City Beautiful’ can soon become a carbon-free city. He further informed that the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, responded positively to this initiative to promote clean transportation and reduce environmental pollution, approving Chandigarh’s additional demand under the scheme.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude to Shri Khattar for his prompt and considerate action, Governor Kataria said that this decision will greatly strengthen Chandigarh’s public transport system, ensuring better connectivity, enhanced passenger convenience, and improved environmental sustainability. He added that the allocation of 428 e-buses represents a decisive step towards transforming Chandigarh into a model green city with a modern and eco-friendly transport network.

The Governor also appreciated the proactive cooperation extended by the Ministry and Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) in expediting the issuance of the Letters of Confirmation of Quantity (LOQ) and Letters of Award (LOA) for the previously approved 100 e-buses, enabling the timely implementation of the project.

Governor Kataria reiterated that the Chandigarh Administration remains committed to expanding the city’s clean transportation infrastructure in line with the vision of sustainable urban development. He emphasized that such progressive initiatives will not only enhance public amenities but also contribute to a greener, cleaner, and healthier environment for future generations.