Ladakh rolls out e-buses to make cold desert a carbon-neutral UT

Srinagar: Ladakh has introduced electronic buses to save the fragile environment in the cold desert.

This initiative is aimed to transform Ladakh into a carbon-neutral Union Territory, while also focusing on the development of Leh and Kargil into smart cities. Provided by SIDCO Transport, Ladakh, these e-buses are 100 percent zero-emission vehicles.

A senior official at Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) told The Kashmir Monitor that they have introduced the first batch of four electric buses in Kargil.

“They will majorly contribute to easing the transportation needs of the local community. Besides, these environment-friendly vehicles not only offer a cleaner and quieter alternative but also hold the potential to improve the living conditions of the people. By reducing noise and pollution, the buses aim to create a healthier environment,” he said.

He added that the electric buses are also helping towards making Kargil and Leh into smart cities. “The charging points are available at many spots; therefore, this facility can meet public demands.”

According to the official, one of the buses will travel in a clockwise direction, covering Kargil town, including the new district hospital area. Another bus will make three trips a day, connecting Kargil to Sankoo. The third e-bus will operate from Kargil to Drass and back to Kargil. Lastly, the fourth e-bus will provide daily transportation from Kargil to Leh.

“The launch of these electric buses is indeed a step in the right direction as it sets the stage for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future,” he said.

Last year, the Ladakh administration announced a new electric vehicle policy with subsidies to encourage citizens to procure e-vehicles to create a carbon-neutral future.

Ladakh’s Electric Vehicle and Allied Infrastructure Policy aims to transform the UT into a torch bearer in terms of the adoption of electric vehicles in the country and envisions encouraging and cultivating an EV ecosystem. The policy entails a capital subsidy of 10 percent on two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers.