CM directs Maharashtra bus corporation to fast-track e-charging; 50% MSRTC fleet to be electric by 2029

Mumbai: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday directed the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to fast-track the creation of a statewide charging-station network to support the planned scale-up of e-buses under the ‘Viksit Maharashtra’ vision.The state targets conversion of 50% of the ST fleet to electric by 2029, 80% by 2035 and 100% by 2047, the CM said. MSRTC has a fleet of 14,500 buses and is set to increase it to 22,000 in 2-3 years.The directives were issued at a review meeting on MSRTC’s e-bus programme held at the Chief Minister’s official residence, Varsha. Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik joined via video conference.Fadnavis emphasised that charging infrastructure must be planned and executed in parallel with fleet induction so that buses can be deployed immediately upon delivery. He instructed officials to ensure that the required charging stations are established on priority, with timelines aligned to depot readiness and route operations.To improve operational efficiency, the Chief Minister asked MSRTC to study proposed e-bus routes using artificial intelligence tools, enabling data-driven decisions on scheduling, energy requirements and turnaround times. He also directed that once buses are received from suppliers, inspections should be completed within seven days to avoid delays in commissioning. Stressing the need for a complete support system, he called for an “ecosystem” around e-buses, including maintenance preparedness and operational planning.Fadnavis further said routes currently served by private buses should also be analysed, and an e-bus alternative should be kept ready to strengthen public transport options and improve service competitiveness.The state’s existing electric vehicle policy provides incentives to expand e-bus adoption in public transport. Under the policy, a subsidy of 10% of the bus cost or up to Rs 20 lakh per bus is available for 1,500 e-buses, aimed at accelerating the shift to cleaner mobility.MSRTC is currently implementing a major procurement plan of 5,150 e-buses under the wet lease model. A union activist from MSRTC said that about two years back, the project commenced with great fanfare, but the e-buses are yet to arrive in large numbers. In fact, last year MSRTC chairman Pratap Sarnaik said that the company responsible for supplying 5,150 electric buses on a lease basis has proven to be inactive, and action should be taken to cancel the tender contract. However, subsequently a notice was served to the company to expedite deliveries of e-buses.Fadnavis said the initiative would deliver modern, comfortable and pollution-free travel for passengers across Maharashtra.