Chandigarh, November 18
The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) is set to retire 85 of its 15-year-old buses from November 19, 2025 in accordance with the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways guidelines. The move marks a significant step in the city’s transition toward cleaner and more sustainable public transport.
These buses were part of the 100-vehicle fleet procured under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JnNURM-I) in 2010. While their operational life officially ends this month, CTU has assured that every measure has been taken to maintain uninterrupted public services during the transition.Under the central government’s PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, 100 new electric buses have already been sanctioned for Chandigarh. The contract agreement with the operator has been finalized, and the prototype electric bus is currently undergoing performance and range testing. According to CTU officials, 25 e-buses will be delivered by the end of November, another 25 by December, and the remaining 50 by early 2026.
To bridge the gap until the e-buses are fully deployed, CTU has implemented interim arrangements. Non-AC long-route buses have been temporarily reassigned to strengthen services within the Tri-City area of Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. Meanwhile, long-distance connectivity will continue through buses operated by neighbouring State Transport Undertakings (STUs).
Reassuring the public, CTU spokesperson stated that passenger convenience, safety and continuity of service remain top priorities. “No Tri-City routes will be affected due to the phasing out of the old buses,” an official note clarified.The induction of electric buses is expected to significantly cut emissions and modernize Chandigarh’s city bus fleet, aligning with national goals for a greener, smarter transport network.
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