Chairman of HSPCB Leads Discussion on Haryana's Clean Air Initiative

Gurugram, Nov 28 (NationPress) In light of the Haryana governing committee's endorsement of the draft detailed project report (DPR) for the Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development, a meeting was convened by P. Raghavendra Rao, Chairman of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), to deliberate on enhancing city bus services in Gurugram and Faridabad by the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) and Faridabad Metropolitan Development Authority (FMDA) respectively.

The Haryana Clean Air Project for Sustainable Development seeks to tackle pollution and foster sustainable development throughout Haryana, with funding from the World Bank. The initiative is scheduled for implementation over a span of six years, with Rs 3,600 crore designated for its initial phase, focusing primarily on Gurugram and Faridabad.

Chairman HSPCB remarked that approximately Rs 1,100 crore has been allocated for transportation sectors, highlighting significant potential for both cities to enhance their city bus transport systems, thereby aiding in the fight against air pollution in the state.

The CEO of GMDA presented the current framework of city bus services in both smart cities and outlined plans to enhance infrastructure and manpower capabilities to strengthen public transport for the overall benefit of the community.

Currently, two depots operated by GMDA are active in Sectors 10 and 52, with plans for a new bus depot in Sector 48 and an electric substation set to commence soon. The Authority has also earmarked land for the establishment of new e-bus depots in Sectors 29, 65, 103, and 107. Similarly, FMDA plans to construct a bus depot in Sector 61, covering an area of 10 acres to accommodate 200 buses.

GMDA is set to build 154 new Bus Queue Shelters in Gurugram, with the project already awarded to an agency. FMDA officials reported that 310 locations for Bus Queue Shelters have been identified and will be developed to ensure seamless bus services for residents.

Chairman HSPCB also addressed the need to expand the bus fleet to accommodate a larger passenger count in both cities. A. Sreenivas indicated that the current fleet of GMCBL comprises 200 buses, with plans to add 100 new e-buses under the PM e-seva scheme and procure an additional 300 e-buses. Likewise, Faridabad will receive 100 buses under the PM e-seva scheme, with FMDA planning to acquire another 100 e-buses to enhance bus services.

Chairman HSPCB emphasized the necessity of ensuring power and energy availability for optimal charging of the e-buses, recommending the Authority to coordinate with DHBVN on this matter.

Additionally, the recruitment of personnel for the smooth operation of bus services should be considered before the arrival of the new buses. The CEO of GMDA-FMDA confirmed that all essential areas are being addressed, and any current land issues will be promptly resolved with relevant departments.