Face2News/Chandigarh
The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) had procured 100 buses under the JnNURM-I scheme in 2010. Of these, 85 buses have now completed their stipulated 15-year operational life. As per the notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, these 85 buses will be phased out and off-roaded with effect from 19 November 2025.
In line with the transition to cleaner and modern public transport, 100 electric buses have already been approved under the PM e-Bus Sewa Scheme, and a contract agreement has been signed with the operator. The prototype electric bus is currently undergoing inspection and range testing. As per the delivery schedule, 25 electric buses are expected by the end of November 2025, another 25 by the end of December 2025, and the remaining 50 buses by January–February 2026.
To ensure that commuters face no inconvenience during this transition, CTU has implemented interim arrangements. Non-AC buses currently operating on long routes have been diverted to strengthen city bus services within the Tri-City area. Long-route connectivity will continue to be maintained through services operated by adjoining State Transport Undertakings (STUs), ensuring minimal impact on passengers who previously used these diverted buses.
CTU reassures the public that convenience, safety, and continuity of service remain its top priorities. The interim measures are aimed solely at maintaining uninterrupted public transport for lakhs of daily commuters across Chandigarh and the Tri-City region. No Tri-City routes are being affected due to the phasing out of the 85 JnNURM-I buses.