In a push to strengthen transportation in the Tricity region, a new electric bus (e-bus) circuit covering Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali is set to launch, The Indian Express reported.. The initiative aims to improve public transport connectivity across the Tricity area with clean, efficient, and hassle-free travel options for residents and commuters.
This development follows recent comments from Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, who noted that ridership in Chandigarh does not meet the thresholds required for Metro operations. He also suggested exploring pod taxi systems as a potential alternative that would better preserve Chandigarh’s architectural heritage.
According to officials, the decision to introduce e-buses aligns with the region’s growing need for environmentally conscious public transport options.
The initiative is part of the broader PM E-Bus Service, a national scheme aimed at expanding electric bus networks across urban centers. Once finalised, the circuit will allow seamless travel for commuters to Panchkula, Mohali, Chandigarh, Zirakpur, Derabassi, Kharar, Kurali, New Chandigarh, and Kalka.
The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) has already submitted a request to the central government for 100 new electric buses to replace aging diesel buses. Currently, Chandigarh operates a fleet of 80 e-buses, and the new additions will help phase out diesel buses over time.