J&K Government to Procure 200 Electric Buses Under PM e-Drive

The Jammu and Kashmir government has announced plans to procure 200 additional electric buses under the Prime Minister e-Drive scheme, marking a major step towards sustainable public transport in the Union Territory. This initiative aims to strengthen electric mobility infrastructure while improving connectivity across key urban corridors.

The proposed 200-bus fleet will be equally distributed between Jammu Smart City and Srinagar Smart City. Jammu is expected to receive 100 buses, including 12-metre and 7-metre models, while Srinagar will get 100 buses with 12-metre and 9-metre variants. This diversified configuration will support high-capacity urban corridors as well as feeder routes.

To enable smooth operations, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has sanctioned ₹14.28 crore for power infrastructure under the Behind-the-Meter system, with work already underway on civil and depot facilities in Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu and Bemina, Srinagar. The buses will be deployed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with central operational assistance provided on a per-kilometre basis for up to ten years.

JKRTC Strengthens Financial and Operational Performance

The expansion aligns with the improving financial health of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC). The corporation has turned profitable in recent years, reporting a surplus of ₹70.04 crore in 2024-25, up from a deficit of ₹15.55 crore in 2021-22. Revenue nearly doubled during this period, while dependence on government support declined.

JKRTC is also implementing asset monetisation initiatives through PPP projects, such as Automated Testing Stations in Jammu and Srinagar, expected to generate consistent revenue.

Focus on Safety, Technology, and Sustainability

Modernisation efforts include GPS tracking systems, integration of electric buses with Intelligent Command and Control Centres, and an Intelligent Transport Management System to enhance operational efficiency and safety. In addition, JKRTC has auctioned 237 ageing vehicles during 2024-25 and plans further fleet renewal to improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs.

The procurement of 200 electric buses under the PM e-Drive scheme is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions while expanding eco-friendly public transport in Jammu and Kashmir.