Last week, Nitin Gadkari, India’s minister of road, transport and highways, launched India’s first electric double-decker bus in Mumbai.
Eknath Shinde, chief minister of Maharashtra, and Devendra Fadanvis, deputy chief minister, and other officials were present at the launch.
The two new electric buses, which include the first air-conditioned double-decker bus in the country, will join the fleet provided by public bus company Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST).
Nitin Gadkari said: “There is a need to transform the country’s transport system from a long-term perspective.
“With focus on reforming urban transport, we are trying to build a low footprint and high passenger density integrated electric vehicle (EV) mobility ecosystem.
“Government’s vision and policies are supportive towards EV adoption with growing consumer demand for greener solutions.
“I would like to congratulate Switch Mobility, subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, for being the one to revive the double decker and remain committed to introducing new technologies for the benefit of passengers and society, at large.”
