January 28, 2026: In a major step towards cleaner and more sustainable public transport, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has begun fast-tracking the development of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across its depots and bus stations. The initiative follows specific directions issued by Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik, who underlined the need for infrastructure readiness to keep pace with the expanding electric bus fleet.
MSRTC is inducting electric buses in phases as part of its broader effort to cut air pollution and transition to environmentally responsible transport solutions. Officials said the smooth and reliable operation of electric buses is heavily dependent on the availability of adequate charging facilities at depots and operational hubs. In line with the corporation’s long-term roadmap, nearly 50 per cent of MSRTC’s future bus fleet is expected to be electric.
Given this scale of transition, all concerned authorities have been instructed to immediately begin upgrading existing depots to support EV charging systems and to complete the required infrastructure works without delay. The focus, officials said, is on ensuring that charging facilities are planned and executed in accordance with actual operational needs so that bus services are not disrupted.
The directive further stresses that future requirements must be factored into infrastructure planning. This includes provisioning for higher power demand, upgrading transformers, and putting in place essential electrical safety systems. Charging installations are expected to be robust and scalable, allowing MSRTC to expand electric operations smoothly over time.
The Transport Minister has also made it clear that when fuel and energy infrastructure is developed under the Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, priority should be given to electric charging stations over conventional fuel outlets, with environmental protection as a key consideration.
MSRTC officials said the initiative extends beyond passenger transport and reflects the corporation’s broader commitment to promoting green energy and fulfilling its environmental responsibilities. The directions were issued through an official communication dated January 20, signed by an authorised officer on behalf of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation.
