Pimpri to Launch India’s First Electric Metro Bus System
CM Devendra Fadnavis approves PCMC's ambitious Electric Rapid Transit System, promising faster, greener and high-capacity public transport across Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Pimpri to Launch India’s First Electric Metro Bus System
Pimpri-Chinchwad is set to become home to India’s first Electric Rapid Transit System (E-RTS) after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis approved the ambitious project aimed at transforming the city’s public transport network.
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The proposed Electric Metro Bus system will operate on the city’s High Capacity Mass Transit Route (HCMTR) and existing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors, offering metro-like travel through fully electric, rubber-tyred vehicles capable of carrying more than 240 passengers per trip.
The proposal received approval during a high-level review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, where Chief Minister Fadnavis directed officials to begin administrative and technical work immediately and complete the pilot project within the planned timeline.
The first phase of the project will introduce a 17-kilometre pilot corridor connecting Godown Chowk in Bhosari to Wakad via Spine Road, Kudalwadi Chowk, Auto Cluster, Mother Teresa Flyover, Kalewadi Phata and Jagtap Dairy Chowk.
According to PCMC Commissioner Dr. Vijay Suryawanshi, the Electric Rapid Transit System is designed to provide metro-like speed, safety and passenger comfort while operating entirely on electric vehicles. Once the pilot proves successful, the network will be gradually expanded across the city’s 31.40-kilometre HCMTR corridor and all major BRT routes.
The integrated transport network will connect Metro stations, railway stations, PMPML bus services and other public transport systems, creating a seamless travel experience for commuters across Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Officials believe the project will significantly reduce traffic congestion, lower air pollution, increase public transport usage and provide residents with a faster, safer and environmentally friendly commuting option.
The approval also marks the revival of the city’s tyre-based rapid transit concept after the earlier Nashik Phata-Chakan Neo Metro proposal was shelved despite a Detailed Project Report worth ₹1,548 crore being prepared in 2022.
Chief Minister Fadnavis instructed the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation to fast-track implementation and ensure the pilot corridor is completed within the proposed timeframe of one to one-and-a-half years in collaboration with Maha Metro.
