By Tajdar H. Zaidi
Lucknow: In a major push towards eco-friendly public transport, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has rolled out 40 new electric buses (e-buses) to bolster intercity travel from Kanpur’s Major Salman Khan Interstate Bus Terminal, commonly known as Jhakarkati. These new e-buses will provide air-conditioned travel to key cities such as Prayagraj, Lucknow, and Rae Bareli. With this latest addition, the total number of air-conditioned buses operating under the Kanpur region now stands at 100, marking a significant improvement in the quality and sustainability of regional transport services.
Route Allocation and Operational Plan
The operational responsibility for these 40 newly launched e-buses has been assigned to RG Mobility Company, which is also tasked with ensuring passenger comfort, efficient scheduling, and the seamless integration of these buses into the existing transport ecosystem. The deployment is part of a broader strategy to transition toward green mobility while enhancing the connectivity of important urban centres in Uttar Pradesh.
As per the current plan, which will be fully implemented by September 2025, the buses will be divided among three key routes:
- 15 e-buses will serve the Kanpur–Lucknow route, which is one of the busiest intercity corridors in the state.
- 15 e-buses will operate on the Kanpur–Rae Bareli route, improving travel options to this politically significant city.
- The remaining 10 e-buses will run between Kanpur and Prayagraj, catering to both general commuters and pilgrims visiting this religious and cultural hub.
The UPSRTC has stated that it will review the performance and passenger feedback on these initial routes before expanding the service further. Additional intercity connections involving cities such as Unnao, Sultanpur, or even Ayodhya could be considered in the future as part of a second phase of deployment.
Supporting Infrastructure and Charging Facilities
Recognising the need for robust infrastructure to support the smooth operation of electric buses, the UPSRTC is simultaneously investing in dedicated facilities for maintenance and battery charging. Two key infrastructure projects are currently under development in Kanpur:
- Azad Nagar Bus Terminal: A modern terminal is being constructed in Azad Nagar, which will serve as a key operations hub for e-buses. This terminal is expected to significantly decongest the main Jhakarkati station while offering better facilities for both passengers and bus operators.
- Charging Station in Vikas Nagar: To meet the charging requirements of the growing e-bus fleet, a state-of-the-art charging station is being set up in Vikas Nagar. The facility will be equipped with six high-capacity charging points, one of which is designed to charge two buses at once. This means that up to 12 e-buses can be charged simultaneously, allowing for quick turnaround and minimal service disruption.
Officials from UPSRTC have expressed confidence that these developments will not only improve the efficiency of public transport in Kanpur and adjoining areas but also contribute meaningfully to reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution.
Toward a Greener Transport Future
The introduction of these e-buses is part of the larger vision of the Uttar Pradesh government to modernise public transportation while reducing its environmental impact. By incorporating electric vehicles into its intercity fleet, UPSRTC is setting a benchmark for other regional transport authorities in the country.
As the rollout progresses and more infrastructure comes online, passengers can expect quieter, smoother, and cleaner travel experiences across the state. The integration of smart charging stations and dedicated terminals further underlines the seriousness of this initiative as a long-term commitment rather than a symbolic gesture.
With public response being a key indicator of success, the UPSRTC is also planning to launch a passenger feedback system to monitor satisfaction, identify pain points, and continuously improve services.
