In yet another step towards turning New Town into a green city, the Bengal Government has recently introduced air-conditioned battery-powered buses in the area. This is a first for the State. Three buses are plying in Action Area I and Action Area II and have already completed 3,000 rides. The buses are following a circular route.
These buses are covering routes which have not been covered by other buses yet. The fare for the buses is Rs 10. Like in several other countries, the buses do not have conductors; the drivers collect the fares. For their new way of functioning, the drivers were given training before the buses were introduced.
Proper signage has been put up for passengers. Stations have been set up where batteries can be recharged. The average speed of the buses varies from 40 to 50 km per hour.
There are plans to also introduce electric vehicles in New Town. This will further bring down air pollution.
Source: Millennium Post