Minister Ponnam Prabhakar Flags Off 60 New EV Buses at Kukatpally Depot

Hyderabad’s push for cleaner and more sustainable public transport received a major boost with the launch of 60 new electric buses by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar flagged off the fleet at the Kukatpally depot, describing the move as a key step toward reducing pollution and lowering dependence on costly fossil fuels.

The Telangana government has been rapidly expanding its EV transport network across the state. At present, more than 1,000 electric buses are operating under TGSRTC, with over 500 buses serving Hyderabad city routes alone. The state is also preparing for a larger expansion under a Central government-backed initiative that is expected to add thousands of new EV buses in the coming years.

Officials believe the growing electric fleet will help reduce carbon emissions , improve urban air quality, and provide a more efficient travel experience for commuters. RTC services continue to witness heavy public dependence, especially after the rollout of the Mahalakshmi free travel scheme for women.

According to recent transport department figures, women passengers have already utilized more than 290 crore zero-fare tickets under the scheme, leading to estimated travel savings of nearly ₹10,000 crore . The initiative has significantly increased women’s use of public transport across Hyderabad and other urban regions.

The minister also highlighted ongoing modernization efforts within TGSRTC, including fleet upgrades, employee welfare measures, and infrastructure development. He said the corporation is focusing on strengthening public transport systems as Hyderabad continues to expand rapidly.

During the event, the government also approved plans for a new RTC depot in the KPHB area following a request by Kukatpally MLA Madhavaram Krishna Rao. Officials have been instructed to begin land allocation and development procedures for the upcoming facility.

With rising traffic congestion and environmental concerns, the Telangana government sees electric mobility as a long-term solution for building a greener and more future-ready Hyderabad.