Green Transit Boost: Yogi Cabinet Approves 250 New AC Electric Buses Worth ₹425 Crore for UP Roadways

Post

In a major push toward sustainable public transport and eco-friendly travel, the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh cabinet has officially approved a policy to purchase 250 new AC electric buses for the UP State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC). The state government has sanctioned a massive budget of ₹425.50 crore to acquire these modern vehicles. This green initiative aims to provide passengers with comfortable, pollution-free, and high-tech travel options across major intercity, religious, and tourist routes statewide.

State Allocates ₹400 Crore to Boost EV Infrastructure

Announcing the cabinet decision, Finance Minister Suresh Khanna detailed the breakdown of the fleet expansion. Under this project, UP Roadways will procure 100 12-meter-long 50-seater AC electric buses along with 150 12-meter-long 42-seater AC electric buses. Out of the total investment of ₹425.50 crore, the Uttar Pradesh state government will provide ₹400 crore in funding, while UPSRTC will cover the remaining ₹25.50 crore through its internal revenues. Furthermore, the approved policy prioritizes EV manufacturers based in Uttar Pradesh, giving a substantial push to local industrial development.

Transport Minister Outlines Environmental Plan

Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh highlighted that this strategic investment directly aligns with environmental directives issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to curb vehicular emissions in the National Capital Region (NCR). With strict rules mandating that only CNG, electric, and BS-6 compliant vehicles will be allowed entry into Delhi starting November 1, 2026, the deployment of these zero-emission buses will ensure uninterrupted, comfortable, and safe intercity transit connecting major towns, pilgrimage centers, and tourist hubs to the national capital.

UPSRTC Moves Beyond Traditional Diesel Fleets

Currently, the UPSRTC operates a massive fleet of over 13,000 diesel and CNG buses across regional routes. In collaboration with the Urban Development Department, the state is aggressively accelerating its clean energy transition. With over 743 electric buses already operating as city transit services, the addition of these 250 high-capacity AC electric buses marks a significant milestone in modernizing Uttar Pradesh's long-distance state transport network and reducing its overall carbon footprint.