Shillong Welcomes 84 New Buses with Major Electric Push Under Central Scheme
In a significant boost to urban mobility, Shillong witnessed the official launch of a modern bus fleet on Friday. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma ceremoniously flagged off 84 new buses, a substantial portion of which—55 vehicles—are fully electric powered. This induction marks a pivotal implementation of the central government's PM eBus Sewa Scheme in Meghalaya's capital.
Formal Introduction of 'Ka Bos Jong Ngi' with Cross-Party Support
The launch event, held at the premises of the New Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, formally introduced the service named 'Ka Bos Jong Ngi,' which translates to 'our bus' in the local Khasi language. The initiative falls under the state's urban affairs department and saw remarkable bipartisan participation.
Chief Minister Sangma was joined by all members of the state legislative assembly for the inaugural ride through Shillong's streets. This included ministers from the ruling coalition as well as the leader of the opposition, Mukul Sangma, demonstrating unified political support for enhancing public transportation infrastructure.
Advanced Passenger Amenities for Modern Commuting Experience
Officials detailed that the newly inducted buses are equipped with multiple modern features designed to elevate the commuting experience. Each vehicle comes with air-conditioning systems to ensure comfort in varying weather conditions. Passengers will benefit from mobile charging points, addressing the need for device connectivity during travel.
The fleet incorporates real-time tracking systems, allowing both operators and commuters to monitor bus locations for better schedule management. Additionally, e-ticketing facilities have been implemented to streamline fare collection and reduce transaction times. An official emphasized that these features collectively aim to provide enhanced convenience, safety, and operational efficiency for all users.
Strategic Implementation Under National Electric Mobility Framework
This deployment represents a strategic step under the PM eBus Sewa Scheme, a central government initiative aimed at promoting electric public transport across Indian cities. The inclusion of 55 electric buses underscores Meghalaya's commitment to sustainable urban development and reducing carbon emissions.
The program's execution through the state's urban affairs department highlights coordinated efforts between different levels of government. The launch not only addresses immediate transportation needs but also sets a precedent for future green mobility projects in the northeastern region.
