- Karnataka Transport Minister asks Central Government to pay subsidies directly to state transport corporations under PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme.
- Current PPP model gives subsidies to private operators who own and maintain electric buses, limiting state control.
- Karnataka is advancing electric bus depots and introducing automated driving test tracks to improve transport infrastructure and clarity.
PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme is an important step forward in India electric public transport efforts. Recently, Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy raised a key concern: the need for the Central Government to give subsidies directly to state transport corporations instead of private players. This aims to improve electric bus purchasing and operation efficiency in states like Karnataka, supporting sustainable urban transport under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme.
Why Karnataka Supports Direct Subsidies under PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme
Minister Ramalinga Reddy has asked the Central Government to send subsidies straight to state transport corporations for buying and running electric buses under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme. He says that giving subsidies directly to states would give them more control over bus services and make operations simpler, which is not the case with the current Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
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How Electric Buses Are Currently Purchased Under PM e-Bus Sewa
Right now, electric buses are mainly bought and run through a PPP tender-based system, where private operators win contracts and get subsidies directly. These operators own the buses, hire drivers, and take care of maintenance. Meanwhile, state transport corporations appoint conductors and pay operators based on the kilometers traveled. This setup puts key responsibilities and subsidy benefits mostly in private hands, causing concerns about accountability and control from the state point of view.
Benefits of Paying Subsidies Directly to State Transport Corporations
Paying subsidies directly to state transport corporations can offer several benefits:
- Clearer operations: States can have more say in bus schedules, maintenance, and service quality.
- Better financial handling: Funds go straight to state bodies, cutting down overheads or losses through middlemen.
- Stronger accountability: With direct control, states can make sure subsidies are used well to grow and maintain electric bus fleets.
Karnataka Progress on Electric Bus Usage and Infrastructure
Karnataka is actively moving ahead with its electric bus infrastructure plans. After getting approval for 100 electric buses in Mangaluru under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, the state has already started finding land for new depots and terminals to support these buses. These updates show Karnataka
s commitment to cleaner and efficient public transport improvements.
Automated Driving Test Track: Improving Efficiency and Clarity
To support transport services, Karnataka opened a modern automated driving test track at Kamblapadavu in Pajir village, Ullal taluk. This advanced facility replaces older manual testing systems, aiming to reduce corruption and improve clarity. With special tracks for two-wheelers, light motor vehicles, and heavy vehicles, the test track promises more efficient, fair, and trusted driver licensing processes.
Implementation Timeline and Online Booking for Automated Tests
The new automated driving test center will be ready within 10 days after it connects with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) systems. Soon, applicants will be able to book their driving tests online, making it easier and cutting out middlemen. This plan puts Karnataka as a leader in using modern transport infrastructure following central government guidelines.
Key Details at a Glance
| Scheme Name | PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme |
| Subsidy Model | Currently via private operators; Proposed direct to state transport corporations |
| Electric Buses Approved for Mangaluru | 100 buses |
| New Infrastructure Initiatives | Automated driving test tracks (42 centers statewide) |
| Automated Test Launch | Within 10 days after NIC integration |
If you live or work in Karnataka, these updates on electric bus deployment and driving test infrastructure mean you an expect stronger, cleaner, and clearer transport services soon. Keep an eye on official announcements for online booking details and subsidy updates under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme.