The public bus transport system operated by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) is undergoing a significant transformation as it works to balance operational efficiency with environmental sustainability. The focus extends beyond managing a vast and complex network of bus services to actively transitioning toward cleaner technologies, accelerating fleet electrification, and integrating data-driven systems to build a more efficient and future-ready mobility ecosystem.

TSRTC operates at an extensive scale, with a fleet of over 10,000 buses serving nearly 60 lakh passengers every day and covering close to 32 lakh kilometers. A significant proportion of these passengers are women, highlighting the system’s critical role in enabling inclusive and accessible mobility across the state. However, such large-scale operations also present environmental challenges, particularly due to the daily consumption of around 6 lakh liters of diesel, resulting in substantial carbon emissions.

Addressing this challenge, the transition toward electric mobility has become a key priority. A growing number of electric buses are already in operation, contributing to a measurable reduction in emissions. Plans are in place to further expand the electric fleet significantly in the coming years, particularly in urban areas where pollution levels are a major concern.

The approach to electrification is both practical and innovative. In addition to procuring new electric buses, efforts are being made to convert existing diesel buses into electric ones through retrofitment. This strategy not only accelerates the transition to cleaner mobility but also ensures optimal utilization of existing assets, improving overall cost efficiency.

A clear long-term roadmap has been established to guide this transformation. The aim is to achieve a substantial share of electrification by 2030, followed by a complete transition to electric fleets by 2039. Beyond that, the broader vision is to move toward net-zero emissions by 2047. Supporting this vision are complementary initiatives such as rooftop solar installations, expansion of green spaces, and the use of land resources for renewable energy generation.

In parallel, digital transformation is playing a crucial role in enhancing both operational efficiency and passenger experience. The adoption of mobile ticketing, real-time bus tracking, integrated payment systems, and AI-based planning tools is helping streamline services, reduce inefficiencies, and improve overall convenience for passengers.

Importantly, the focus of technological advancement is not limited to passenger-facing services. There is a strong emphasis on improving the working conditions of drivers by deploying systems that enhance safety, monitoring, and operational efficiency. The objective is to ensure that innovation supports frontline operations and contributes to safer and more reliable services.

Financial sustainability remains a critical consideration in this transition. The relatively high cost of electric buses poses a challenge for large-scale adoption, especially in a price-sensitive public transport ecosystem. Maintaining affordable fares while investing in modernization requires a careful balance between cost efficiency and service quality.

Expanding connectivity is another key priority. Efforts are being made to extend bus services to underserved areas, improving access to public transport for a larger population. At the same time, increasing the share of public transport usage will depend on delivering services that are affordable, comfortable, and efficient enough to encourage a shift away from private vehicles.

Also Read: Driving the EV Transition: Telangana’s Vision for Sustainable Urban Mobility.

Overall, the transformation of TSRTC’s bus transport system reflects a comprehensive approach that combines sustainability, technology, and operational improvements. By aligning long-term environmental goals with practical execution and user needs, the system is steadily moving toward becoming more inclusive, efficient, and future-ready.

Insights shared by: Y. Nagi Reddy, Managing Director, Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC), at the 2nd Elets National Mobility Summit held on 17 March in Hyderabad

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