Maharashtra Announces Full Transition to Electric Buses by 2035, Introduces AI-Powered Smart E-Buses
Pune News, June 11, 2025: In a landmark move towards sustainable public transport, Maharashtra’s Transport Minister, Pratap Sarnaik, announced that the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will completely phase out diesel buses and replace them with electric vehicles (EVs) by 2035. The shift aligns with the state government’s policy of promoting eco-friendly mobility solutions.
Smart E-Buses with AI-Based Safety Systems to Join MSRTC Fleet Soon
During a presentation in Pune, Minister Sarnaik inspected a smart e-bus developed for the Uttar Pradesh State Transport Corporation, equipped with AI-powered integrated safety systems. He confirmed that similar AI-driven e-buses will soon be inducted into the MSRTC fleet.
Key features of these smart e-buses include:
✔ AI-based surveillance for enhanced passenger safety
✔ Emergency response mechanisms for fire and other hazards
✔ Anti-unauthorized entry systems (following incidents like the Swargate tragedy)
✔ Modern amenities for improved passenger comfort
Phased Transition: 1,000 E-Buses Annually, 25,000 by 2029
The minister outlined a detailed roadmap for MSRTC’s transformation:
- 5,000 new buses will be introduced in the coming years, with 1,000 being electric annually.
- By 2029, the fleet will expand to 25,000 buses, progressively shifting to 100% electric by 2035.
- Aging buses will be phased out systematically, replaced with modern, energy-efficient models.
Financial Revival & Operational Overhaul for MSRTC
Acknowledging MSRTC’s financial struggles (accumulated losses of ₹11,000 crore), Sarnaik announced:
📌 A white paper will be released to address past inefficiencies.
📌 A two-and-a-half-year recovery plan to stabilize operations.
📌 No leasing model—MSRTC will own all new buses, with some manufactured exclusively for the corporation.
Strong Government Support for EV Policy
Sarnaik highlighted Maharashtra’s leadership in EV manufacturing at the Commercial Vehicle Forum 2025, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable transport.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Full electrification of MSRTC buses by 2035
✅ 1,000 AI-powered e-buses to be added yearly
✅ Enhanced safety with AI-driven systems
✅ Financial restructuring plan for MSRTC
✅ Maharashtra leading India’s EV revolution
This bold initiative positions Maharashtra as a pioneer in green public transport, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.
