Major EV push: TGSRTC to operate 2,800 electric buses in ORR limits by 2027

Hyderabad: Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has unveiled an ambitious green mobility roadmap, aiming to introduce 2,800 electric buses within Hyderabad’s Outer Ring Road (ORR) limits by 2027.

In a significant milestone, the corporation claims to have become the first state-run transport body in the country to implement large-scale retrofitting of diesel buses into electric vehicles.

The initiative is being spearheaded by RTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Y Nagi Reddy, IPS, as part of the State government’s broader effort to curb urban air pollution and promote sustainable public transport.

Retrofitting diesel buses into electric fleet

As part of its eco-friendly strategy, TGSRTC has opted for ‘retrofitting’ technology, converting existing diesel buses into electric vehicles. Tenders for the project were invited on September 15, 2025, and finalised on September 30, 2025.

Under the agreement:

- Sai Green Mobility will retrofit 200 buses

- Kalyani Powertrain Limited will convert 40 buses

Officials said this move will significantly reduce operational costs while accelerating the transition to clean energy transport.

Reduce dependency on private vehicles

The corporation plans to operate 2,800 electric buses within ORR limits by 2027. Authorities believe that increasing public transport usage and reducing dependence on private vehicles will bring down air pollution levels in Hyderabad.

Experts estimate that the initiative will contribute to lower cases of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, improving overall public health in the city.

Existing fleet and infrastructure expansion

Currently, 325 electric buses are operating across six city depots. Another 175 buses are expected to be inducted later this year.

To support the expanding fleet:

- Charging infrastructure is being set up in 19 additional depots

- Plans are underway to construct 10 new depots and 10 charging stations

- The estimated cost for infrastructure development stands at Rs 392 crore

Musheerabad pilot project a success, says govt

TGSRTC had earlier piloted the retrofitting model in 2023 by converting a diesel bus from the Musheerabad depot into an electric vehicle with private collaboration. The bus is now operating successfully under the Uppal depot, reinforcing confidence in the retrofitting model.

Call for public support

Addressing officials at a meeting held at Bus Bhavan, RTC VC & MD Y Nagi Reddy urged citizens to support the green transition. He said the initiative would redefine Hyderabad’s public transport landscape and called for collective participation in building a sustainable future.