Top Official Assures E-Buses Won’t Trigger RTC Privatization

M.T. Krishna Babu, Special Chief Secretary for Transport, has firmly refuted claims circulating about the potential privatization of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) due to the introduction of electric buses. He emphasized that these reports are misleading and highlighted that the government is committed to maintaining APSRTC as a public transport entity. The induction of approximately 750 electric buses as part of the PM eBus Sewa scheme is aimed at enhancing environmentally sustainable urban mobility, rather than transitioning to a privatized model.

Under the PM eBus Sewa scheme, which aims to bolster clean and efficient public transport across India, APSRTC is set to benefit from substantial financial support for the establishment of necessary infrastructure. This includes a grant of ₹145.39 crore for charging and maintenance facilities, along with expected incentives totaling nearly ₹1,774 crore for operational costs tied to the introduction of these electric buses. The previous successful operation of 100 electric buses under the Centre’s FAME-II scheme serves as a basis for this new rollout, demonstrating the feasibility and added value of electric public transport.

Krishna Babu has reiterated that the move towards electric buses is designed to reduce environmental pollution while improving service efficiency and passenger comfort. He assured that there will be no job losses for current employees as a result of this transition, affirming the Chief Minister’s commitment to employee security. The government aims to create a reliable and eco-friendly transport system without compromising the livelihoods of APSRTC staff, emphasizing that the interests of all stakeholders will be safeguarded throughout this initiative.