Rajasthan CM flags off EKA Mobility e-buses; first phase of 876-bus deployment begins
ADVERTISEMENT
Rajasthan took a key step towards cleaner public transportation on Saturday as Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma flagged off electric buses manufactured by EKA Mobility in Jaipur, marking the beginning of the first phase of deployment under the Centre's PM-eBus Sewa initiative.
The PM-eBus Sewa scheme aims to deploy 10,000 electric buses across 116 cities under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, backed by ₹20,000 crore in central support.
The rollout is part of an order for 876 electric buses awarded to electric commercial vehicle manufacturer EKA Mobility in consortium with Chartered Speed. The buses will be procured, operated and deployed by Chartered Speed across eight cities in Rajasthan, supporting the state's transition towards sustainable and environmentally friendly urban mobility, according to an official statement.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by senior government officials and transport authorities, underscoring the state's focus on accelerating the adoption of green mobility solutions and reducing the carbon footprint of public transport systems, the release noted.
Speaking on the occasion, Sudhir Mehta, Founder and Chairman of EKA Mobility, said the deployment reflects Rajasthan's commitment to sustainable transportation and aligns with India's broader electrification goals.
"We are honoured to partner with the Government of Rajasthan in its journey towards building a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem. The flag-off of EKA electric buses by Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma Ji is a testament to the state's strong commitment towards green mobility," Mehta said.
He added that EKA's electric mobility solutions are now operating across several parts of the country. "Today, EKA's electric mobility solutions are serving communities across the length and breadth of India - from Rajasthan to Arunachal Pradesh, and from Uttarakhand to Andhra Pradesh. This growing national footprint reflects our commitment to supporting India's transition to green mobility while improving the quality of life for millions through modern, inclusive and sustainable public transport," he said.
The electric buses are built on EKA Mobility's proprietary electric vehicle platform and are equipped with advanced technologies aimed at improving passenger comfort, operational efficiency and safety. The vehicles feature intelligent fleet management systems, enhanced safety mechanisms and zero tailpipe emissions, helping reduce pollution in urban areas.
A key highlight of the buses is their focus on accessibility. The vehicles are fitted with dedicated wheelchair lift door mechanisms designed to assist Divyang passengers, enabling safe and convenient boarding and deboarding for wheelchair users and promoting inclusive public transportation.
The deployment is expected to strengthen urban mobility infrastructure across Rajasthan while contributing to the state's environmental goals by lowering emissions from public transport.
Backed by Pinnacle Industries, EKA Mobility raised ₹500 crore from the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)-managed India-Japan Fund in October last year. The funding is aimed at accelerating the company's growth strategy and scaling its electric vehicle business across India.