Did PM Modi Launch 25 New E-Buses at the Statue of Unity?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 25 new e-buses launched at the Statue of Unity.
- Ekta Nagar now has a total of 55 electric buses.
- Focus on inclusive design for differently-abled passengers.
- Initiative aims to establish India’s first E-City.
- Event to celebrate Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31.
Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (NationPress) On the eve of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's 150th birth anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated 25 state-of-the-art electric buses valued at ₹30 crore at the Statue of Unity in Kevadia, Narmada district, as part of a significant initiative towards promoting sustainable tourism and eco-friendly transportation.
With this new addition, Ekta Nagar now boasts a total of 55 e-buses, offering tourists a complimentary, comfortable, and environmentally friendly mode of transport throughout the area.
The Prime Minister’s green mobility campaign is designed to transform Ekta Nagar into India’s inaugural model E-City, reflecting his expansive vision for clean mobility and sustainable progress.
The new 9-meter-long, air-conditioned e-buses can cover distances of up to 180 km on a single charge. They have been meticulously designed to prioritize inclusivity, featuring special accessibility systems for differently-abled passengers, including a hydraulic lift for easy boarding and disembarking. Additionally, four pink seats have been allocated for women to enhance comfort and safety.
During the event, PM Modi remarked: "Ekta Nagar is not merely a tourist hotspot; it stands as a living testament to environmental awareness and sustainable development. The introduction of e-buses will contribute to cleaner air, reduced noise pollution, and modern amenities for our guests."
As part of the “India’s First E-City” initiative, the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority (SOUADTGA) has progressively integrated various electric transportation options -- including e-cars, e-rickshaws, and now e-buses -- to encourage carbon-neutral tourism and mitigate vehicular emissions in the region.
Initially announced by PM Modi on World Environment Day 2021, the project has since turned Ekta Nagar into a beacon of eco-friendly tourism and technological progress. With the addition of the new fleet, visitors can now experience smart, free, and sustainable travel while exploring the Statue of Unity complex and nearby attractions.
Under the guidance of the Prime Minister's vision, Ekta Nagar is continually evolving as an exemplary model of the synergy between sustainability, innovation, and tourism.
A grand celebration for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) is scheduled for October 31 at Ekta Nagar, commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, as announced by Minister and State Spokesperson Jitu Vaghani.