Goa: KTC fleet to get 50 electric buses, charging stations

PANAJI: To establish Goa as a “model for international standards for electric vehicles (EVs)”, chief minister Pramod Sawant has proposed to bring 50 electric buses in the state this year. These will be added to Kadamba Transport Corporation’s (KTC) existing fleet and will be introduced along with associated infrastructure such as charging stations at all KTC bus stands.
“Electric vehicles are widely gaining markets across the globe. The automotive industry is rapidly shifting from traditional fuel-based technology to eco-friendly technologies,” Sawant said in his budget speech on Thursday.
KTC is placing an order for the buses under the second phase of the FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India) scheme, initiated by the ministry of heavy industry (MoHI) to assist states in purchasing EVs.
KTC had requested for 250 electric buses in July under the scheme and received a green signal for 50 e-buses.
The corporation was scheduled to open the financial bid for these buses by November 5 while the order letter for the procurement of 50 EVs was to be issued by November 15. This deadline was, however, postponed.
The crumbling bus stands at Mapusa and Quepem will soon receive a makeover, while proposed bus stands at Bicholim and Sakhali will see speedy completion, Sawant said.
To help water vessels navigate with ease, he also resolved to take up reconstruction of the lighthouse at Campal. Heavy erosion and salinity have affected the structure.