Daijiworld Media Network - Navi Mumbai
Navi Mumbai, Jun 28: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) is set to strengthen its fleet with 150 new CNG-powered buses within a year, with 30 buses already inducted in the first phase.
The move is expected to improve public transport services for commuters. Officials said that considering the frequent issues faced by electric buses, the transport undertaking has decided to focus more on procuring CNG buses in the coming period.
NMMT currently operates a fleet of around 350 buses, running across Navi Mumbai as well as routes connecting Panvel, Uran, Khopoli, Kalyan-Dombivli, Borivali and Mantralaya. The transport service witnesses high passenger demand as women commuters receive a 50 per cent fare concession, while senior citizens are also provided travel benefits.
Commuters have been demanding an increase in bus services on several routes. However, due to a shortage of buses, the transport undertaking has been unable to increase the frequency of services, forcing passengers to wait longer for buses.
To address the issue, NMMT had decided last year to purchase 150 new buses. The transport department opted for CNG buses as part of the expansion plan, and deliveries have now begun.
Officials said electric buses frequently face technical problems, including breakdowns on roads, causing inconvenience to passengers and leading to disputes between commuters and drivers. Due to these concerns, the transport undertaking decided to purchase more CNG buses instead of expanding the electric bus fleet.
The 30 newly received CNG buses are currently stationed at the NMMT depot in Ghansoli and will soon be introduced into regular operations. Another 20 buses are expected to arrive next month, with the remaining buses scheduled to join the fleet in phases.
The buses have been purchased directly by the transport undertaking, meaning the revenue generated through their operations will go into NMMT’s account. Officials expressed confidence that the new buses will benefit both the transport body and commuters by providing improved and more reliable services.