Charged for a Pilgrimage: UP’s E-Buses Take the Holy Route

Uttar Pradesh state government has launched electric air-conditioned bus services between major religious hubs—Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Sonbhadra—to promote its green mobility drive. The 28-seater electric buses, equipped with CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, and panic buttons, will enhance pilg...

Uttar Pradesh state government has launched electric air-conditioned bus services between major religious hubs—Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Sonbhadra—to promote its green mobility drive. The 28-seater electric buses, equipped with CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, and panic buttons, will enhance pilgrims' safety and reduce emissions. Key points: Charging stations: Five charging stations (four in Varanasi, one in Sonbhadra) operational within a month, offering 150 km range per 30-minute charge. Expansion proposals: 100 buses to be bought (₹1.5 crore per unit) and 250 rented through tender, with routes being increased up to Mathura and Chitrakoot. Kumbh Mela 2025: 200 electric buses to operate during the mela, including 12-meter variants with 200+ km range. The project is in line with UP's ₹600 crore fund allocation for environment-friendly transport and its FAME-II grant application. Sources: Elets, UNI, ET EnergyWorld