West Bengal Shifts to CNG Buses: Sustainable & Affordable Alternative to Electric

• West Bengal is moving away from electric buses due to technological and economic challenges, opting for CNG as a more affordable and sustainable solution.
• Existing 80 electric buses, costing 95 lakh to 1.30 crore each, faced rapid battery degradation, reducing mileage from 100-110 km to 70-80 km.
• High maintenance costs and lack of spare parts, particularly for the 18 lakh rupee batteries, rendered many e-buses inoperable.
• The state has initiated the acquisition of 200 CNG-powered AC buses, with 25 slated for Kolkata routes.
• CNG buses, costing 42-44 lakh each, are eco-friendly, durable, and expected to operate for at least 15 years without battery issues.