Understanding the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme for Urban Transport

Overview of the PM-eBus Sewa Scheme

The PM-eBus Sewa scheme is a transformative initiative designed to enhance urban transportation by introducing 10,000 e-buses into city bus operations through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This scheme aims to significantly improve the quality and sustainability of public transport in urban areas.

Key Highlights of the Scheme

• Scope and Investment: The PM-eBus Sewa scheme has an estimated cost of Rs.57,613 crore, which includes a substantial Rs.20,000 crore subsidy from the Central government. The initiative is structured to support bus operations for a duration of ten years.
• Targeted Cities: The scheme focuses on cities with populations exceeding three lakh, as per the 2011 census. This includes all Union Territory capitals, cities in the North Eastern Region, and Hill States. Priority is given to areas that currently lack organized bus services.
• Job Creation: A significant benefit of this initiative is the expected generation of 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs through the deployment of these e-buses, contributing to local economies.
• Scheme Segments:
  • Segment A: This segment enhances city bus services in 169 cities with the introduction of e-buses and associated infrastructure, such as depot upgrades and power supply systems for charging.
  • Segment B: Known as the Green Urban Mobility Initiatives (GUMI), it operates in 181 cities, focusing on green initiatives like bus priority infrastructure and multimodal interchange facilities.
• Operational Responsibility and Support: State and city governments will oversee the operation of the bus services and compensate the operators, while the Central government will provide specified subsidies.

E-Mobility and Environmental Impact

The PM-eBus Sewa scheme is a pivotal step towards promoting e-mobility, as it encourages the development of charging infrastructure and fosters innovation in the electric vehicle sector. By increasing the share of bus-based public transportation, the scheme aims to reduce noise and air pollution, lower carbon emissions, and contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction.

Conclusion

In summary, the PM-eBus Sewa scheme represents a significant advancement towards sustainable urban mobility. It aligns with environmental goals while fostering advancements in electric vehicle technology, ultimately leading to a cleaner and more efficient urban transport system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
Answer: The PM-eBus Sewa scheme aims to integrate 10,000 electric buses into urban transportation through a Public-Private Partnership model, enhancing public transport and sustainability.

Q2. How much investment is allocated for the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
Answer: The scheme is estimated to cost Rs.57,613 crore, which includes a Rs.20,000 crore subsidy from the Central government, supporting operations for ten years.

Q3. Which cities are targeted for the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
Answer: The scheme targets cities with populations over three lakh, including all Union Territory capitals and cities in the North Eastern Region and Hill States.

Q4. How many jobs will the PM-eBus Sewa scheme create?
Answer: It is anticipated that the deployment of e-buses under this scheme will generate approximately 45,000 to 55,000 direct jobs.

Q5. What are the environmental benefits of the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
Answer: The scheme promotes e-mobility, reduces noise and air pollution, lowers carbon emissions, and contributes to greenhouse gas reduction through enhanced public transport.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary focus of the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
A) Increasing diesel buses
B) Integrating electric buses into urban transport
C) Reducing urban population
D) Enhancing rail transport
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How long is the operational support guaranteed by the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
A) 5 years
B) 10 years
C) 15 years
D) 20 years
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which regions are prioritized for the deployment of e-buses under this scheme?
A) Urban areas only
B) Cities with populations below three lakh
C) Cities lacking organized bus services
D) Only metropolitan cities
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is the estimated job creation from the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
A) 10,000 to 20,000 jobs
B) 25,000 to 35,000 jobs
C) 45,000 to 55,000 jobs
D) 60,000 to 70,000 jobs
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: How much subsidy does the Central government provide for the PM-eBus Sewa scheme?
A) Rs.10,000 crore
B) Rs.15,000 crore
C) Rs.20,000 crore
D) Rs.25,000 crore
Correct Answer: C