Electric fleet expansion plan: BEST to induct 1,500 AC midi buses through wet-lease model
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Animal husbandry, fisheries & allied· Prelims·
Why in news
BEST Undertaking announced the induction of 1,500 AC electric midi buses via a wet-lease model under the PM E-Drive Scheme to expand Mumbai's public transport.
Background
BEST will lease 1,500 electric midi buses for a period of 12 years at a rate of Rs 60.25 per kilometer. The procurement involves joint ventures including Greencell Mobility Pvt Ltd and Sai Green Projects Pvt Ltd.
Facts for Prelims
- SchemePM E-Drive Scheme: Central government initiative to promote electric mobility and expand public transport fleets.
- FactBEST current fleet: 2,802 buses with 46.7% currently being electric.
- FactWet-lease model: A contract where the lessor provides the vehicle, driver, and maintenance, while the lessee pays per kilometer.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the adoption of wet-lease models and electric mobility schemes can address the challenges of urban public transport infrastructure in rapidly growing Indian metros.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Fiscal efficiency: Reducing upfront capital expenditure (CAPEX) through wet-lease models to expedite fleet expansion.
- Operational scalability: Addressing the logistical bottleneck of maintenance and driver availability through private-sector partnerships.
- Environmental transition: Mitigating urban air pollution and noise through the electrification of last-mile and midi-bus connectivity.
Keywords: Public-Private Partnership · Sustainable Urban Mobility · Decarbonization · Capital Expenditure · Last-mile Connectivity
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