Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Sep 20: The Goa government has taken a key step toward implementing the Centre’s ambitious PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, officially notifying North Goa Urban Mobility Area and South Goa Urban Mobility Area to boost electric bus operations connecting statutory and census towns.

According to the Department of Urban Development, the move clears the way for planning routes, developing infrastructure, and launching e-bus services under the scheme. Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd (KTCL) will serve as the implementing agency, while a state-level steering committee headed by the Chief Secretary will process project proposals.

Launched in August 2023, the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme aims to deploy 10,000 electric buses across India at an estimated cost of ?57,613 crore under a public-private partnership model. The scheme focuses on enhancing urban mobility and promoting e-mobility in cities with populations between 3 lakh and 40 lakh, as well as smaller state capitals as per the 2011 Census.

Officials said the notification sets the stage for eco-friendly public transport in Goa, promising cleaner travel and improved connectivity across municipal regions.