Nagpur, India: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is taking a big step forward in its ₹152 crore trolley bus project by inviting bids to purchase and maintain 28 new articulated buses. These buses will run on the 42-kilometre Inner Ring Road.

Each of the buses will be 18 meters long and can carry 130 passengers. They will use flash charging technology, which allows them to recharge at bus stops without much downtime. The charging stations will be set up at key locations along the route.

The NMC has received approval from the state government to call for bids, and once the bids are in, the project will be given final approval. The buses will be maintained by the successful bidder for the next 10 years.

The fleet will include 27 buses in operation and one backup bus. They will run at a frequency of 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. These buses will be air-conditioned and feature amenities like real-time display boards at bus stops.

The project is being supported by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, with Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari actively involved. The buses will have fast charging equipment, allowing them to be recharged quickly while passengers board and disembark.

NMC will also build maintenance depots and charging stations for the buses. To make the experience better for passengers, solar-powered bus shelters with toilets and display boards will be installed.

This project is expected to improve public transport in Nagpur, making it greener and more efficient for everyone.