Ahmedabad, Feb 13 (NationPress) The Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS) recently welcomed 28 new electric buses to its fleet, inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Ahmedabad, signaling the initial phase of a broader initiative to introduce 225 electric buses in the city.

As per an official announcement, these 28 cutting-edge buses come equipped with advanced cybersecurity mechanisms and Fire Detection and Suppression Systems (FDSS).

Notably, India has implemented mandatory cybersecurity and safety audits for electric buses for the first time. The introduction of 225 e-buses is projected to decrease carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 75,000 kilograms annually.

Following the launch, the Chief Minister boarded one of the buses to inspect passenger amenities and safety features.

AMTS Chairman Dharamshi Desai commented to IANS: “These EV buses are being added to the AMTS fleet for the first time. A total of 225 buses are planned. Today, the Chief Minister flagged off 5 buses, and 28 are already in service. All buses are expected to arrive by March.”

He noted, “Until now, only double-decker buses were in operation, alongside CNG buses. Previously, diesel buses were phased out by the government. Now, electric buses will replace the CNG fleet.”

The government highlighted that this project is one of the fastest implemented in the nation, with the entire tender process wrapped up in six months and bus deliveries completed in three months.

In a separate event, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation celebrated the ‘Shatabdi Shiksha Mahotsav’ to commemorate the centennial of the Municipal School Board.

At Navrangpura, the Chief Minister inaugurated a newly constructed School Board building, which cost Rs 10.61 crore. This four-storey structure will accommodate all 18 departments of the education committee under one roof.

During an event at the Sabarmati Riverfront, he also virtually inaugurated 15 smart schools developed at a cost of Rs 16.11 crore.

Addressing attendees, Patel shared, “More than 56,000 students have transitioned from private schools to the School Board’s smart schools.”

He remarked that the municipal primary education committee, established 100 years ago based on principles of morality and self-reliance, currently operates across 453 schools and contributes to nation-building through value-driven education.

Highlighting national initiatives, he stated the goal is to integrate knowledge, values, and technology to realize a developed India by 2047.

Education Minister Dr. Pradyuman Vaja remarked, “The Shatabdi Shiksha Mahotsav is not just a festival; it embodies Gujarat’s cultural and intellectual growth.”

He emphasized the significance of reforms under the National Education Policy 2020 and the Mission School of Excellence, stating, “The government is not merely constructing buildings but nurturing the future of India.”

He also noted that education is not just a pathway to employment, but a sacred endeavor, with devoted teachers playing a crucial role in shaping students’ destinies.

As part of the centennial celebrations, 100 schools and 100 teachers were honored, with symbolic awards presented to six schools and six educators, including cheques, shields, and certificates.