Transport ministry approves funding for India's first flash-charging bus system in Nagpur

The road transport ministry on Tuesday approved providing financial support to Nagpur Municipal Corporation for setting up a flash-charging-based electric articulated bus system. The first-of-its-kind project in the country will ensure last-mile connectivity in the Ring Road area of the orange city and the peri-urban areas. This will also provide seamless travel from Metro stations to other parts.

The ministry’s go ahead came before the model code of conduct (MCC) kicked in.

As per the plan, more than 30 articulated buses of 18 meter length will be deployed and each bus can accommodate 130 passengers. “With more than six overhead 600 kW flash chargers at selected bus stops, the bus system will provide non-stop service on Ring Road with a frequency of 15 minutes, operating for 16 hours and catering to more than 8,000 passengers daily,” an official said.

Flash-charging technology allows articulated buses to be charged in just 15 seconds at the bus stops with the overhead flash-chargers. This reduced the need for long charging time at the depots under the conventional charging system.

Ministry sources said the buses will have global-standard comfort and aesthetics, and will be equipped with CCTV systems, overhead storage similar to aeroplanes, pantries and vending machines. The seats with laptop tray tables and charging points will also be some of the other features.

This bus system not only benefits the environment but also brings down the operational costs.