In a significant move to boost inter-state connectivity, the Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) is all set to roll out 60 brand-new diesel buses to strengthen its long-route operations. Punjab Governor and Union Territory Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria will officially inaugurate the fleet at ISBT, Sector 17, tomorrow.

The newly introduced 51-seater non-AC buses have been thoughtfully designed to prioritize passenger comfort while replacing older, outdated vehicles. In order to provide smooth connectivity to locations like Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and numerous more states, these buses will serve 31 essential routes.

A Strategic ₹22 Crore Investment to Enhance Connectivity

CTU has invested ₹22 crore in acquiring these buses through a competitive tendering process, marking a significant upgrade to its services. The investment is integral to a comprehensive strategy aimed at revitalizing the fleet through the replacement of decommissioned vehicles. These new buses are expected not only to reinstate previously discontinued routes but also to create new links to underserved areas, thereby providing passengers with improved travel options and enhanced convenience.

CTU’s Vision for a Greener Future Through Electric Mobility

While the addition of diesel buses addresses current transportation needs, CTU is simultaneously working toward its long-term goal of achieving an all-electric fleet by 2027-28. Currently, 80 electric buses are operational in Chandigarh, and 100 more are expected to join the fleet later this year under the PM e-Bus Sewa scheme.

In addition to this, the UT Administration has proposed acquiring 328 more electric buses from the Central Government to accelerate its transition to sustainable and eco-friendly urban mobility. This two-pronged strategy guarantees that CTU will continue to be dedicated to environmental sustainability while meeting urgent passenger demands.

Expanding Long-Route Services to Popular Religious and Tourist Destinations

The introduction of 60 new buses will also strengthen CTU’s services to religious and tourist destinations across Northern India. Passengers traveling to places like Khatu Shyam, Salasar Dham, Ayodhya, Mathura, Vrindavan, Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Manali can look forward to reliable, safe, and comfortable journeys. This extension ensures a comprehensive travel experience for everyone by serving both pilgrims and leisure travelers.

CTU’s Push to Improve Fleet Utilization and Passenger Services

With a current fleet of 168 inter-state buses, including 119 AC diesel and 49 ordinary vehicles, CTU covers 146 routes with an impressive daily ridership of 1.43 lakh passengers. Its buses collectively cover approximately 1.42 lakh kilometers each day.

The addition of 60 diesel buses will enhance the fleet’s reliability and service frequency, ensuring smoother operations. CTU is also focused on improving fleet utilization rates, targeting an ambitious 90% efficiency to meet growing passenger demands.

A Balanced Approach to Modernize Public Transport for the Future

The rollout of these new diesel buses marks a pivotal step in CTU’s mission to redefine public transportation. While addressing immediate connectivity needs, the administration is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, electric-driven future. Passengers can expect improved travel experiences on long routes today, while eco-friendly solutions await tomorrow.

By balancing innovation with inclusivity, CTU continues to uphold its commitment to delivering reliable, affordable, and sustainable public transportation across the region.