Navi Mumbai’s electric double-decker bus plan remains stalled after three years

The proposed electric double-decker buses are expected to operate on the Koperkhairane-Ghansoli route. Representation pic/X/MH04Thane

Navi Mumbai's plan to induct 10 electric double-decker buses into its public transport fleet remains stalled more than three years after it was announced. The proposal was unveiled in the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) Budget for 2022-23. Along with air-conditioned electric double-decker buses, NMMT also proposed a ‘Double Decker Darshan' service covering major tourist destinations across Navi Mumbai.

Project delayed

The delay comes even as transport undertakings across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have expanded their electric bus fleets. The proposed buses were expected to operate on the Koperkhairane-Ghansoli route and as a dedicated sightseeing service covering major attractions across Navi Mumbai.

Green mobility

Transport experts said procurement of new public transport vehicles involves multiple stages, including approvals, tendering, and manufacturing, which can lead to delays.

With Navi Mumbai continuing to grow and demand for public transport increasing, the induction of high-capacity electric double-decker buses is expected to strengthen the NMMT fleet while supporting cleaner urban mobility.

For now, NMMT remains hopeful the long-awaited buses will be delivered before the end of 2026, turning a proposal announced over three years ago into reality.

Public demand

Pratik Yadav, activist
‘The proposal generated excitement when it was announced because it promised both better public transport and a tourism initiative. After three years, people would like to see visible progress. Projects announced in public budgets should be implemented within a reasonable timeframe.'

Pratik Yadav, activist
‘The proposal generated excitement when it was announced because it promised both better public transport and a tourism initiative. After three years, people would like to see visible progress. Projects announced in public budgets should be implemented within a reasonable timeframe.'

Official assurance

A senior NMMT official
‘The proposal was made during the 2022-23 budget. We are still waiting for the buses, but the project is very much on our agenda. We are hopeful they will arrive by the end of this year once the procurement process is completed.'