Bhogapuram Airport News: 20 Electric AC Buses to Start Airport Service
Bhogapuram Airport News
The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) is preparing to introduce 20 electric AC buses to connect Visakhapatnam with the upcoming Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR) International Airport at Bhogapuram in the neighbouring Vizianagaram district. The initiative is part of the state’s efforts to promote eco-friendly public transportation and improve airport connectivity before the new airport becomes operational.
The first phase of the project will include a fleet of 20 electric buses, offering passengers a comfortable, air-conditioned, and environmentally friendly travel option between the city and the new international airport.
According to APSRTC officials, the buses will operate on two different routes to provide better connectivity across Visakhapatnam. The fleet has been divided equally, with 10 buses assigned to each route, ensuring that passengers from different parts of the city can easily reach the airport.
The daily service schedule has also been planned to suit the needs of air travelers. The first bus will depart from Gajuwaka at 4:00 a.m., allowing passengers to reach the airport for early morning flights. The last return bus will leave the Bhogapuram Airport terminal at 7:00 p.m., providing convenient transportation for passengers arriving throughout the day.
The electric buses are being introduced under a Central Government-funded scheme aimed at encouraging sustainable and green public transportation across India. The vehicle manufacturing and operational contract has been awarded to Pune-based Pinnacle Mobility Solutions Private Limited, which operates under its electric commercial vehicle brand, EKA Mobility.
As part of the agreement, APSRTC will pay the company approximately ₹65 per kilometre for operating the electric bus fleet. This model allows the transport corporation to provide modern services without directly handling vehicle manufacturing and maintenance.
A fresh batch of 20 electric buses is expected to leave the production facility in Pune on the night of July 5. After reaching Visakhapatnam, the buses will be stationed at the Gajuwaka and Vizag Steel City bus depots, where they will undergo necessary inspections before entering service.
Before the official launch, APSRTC will conduct detailed field trials to evaluate the buses’ overall performance. Officials will test battery efficiency, vehicle reliability, passenger comfort, and route navigation along the airport corridors. These trials are expected to begin within the coming week after the buses arrive in the city.
APSRTC officials are also inspecting the electric vehicle charging infrastructure being developed at Bhogapuram Airport. Proper charging facilities are considered essential for ensuring smooth and uninterrupted operations once the buses begin regular services.
The introduction of electric buses is expected to reduce carbon emissions while providing passengers with a quieter, cleaner, and more comfortable travel experience. Electric buses also have lower operating emissions compared to conventional diesel buses, supporting the government’s environmental goals.
The upcoming ASR International Airport at Bhogapuram is expected to become an important aviation hub for Andhra Pradesh, serving both domestic and international passengers. Reliable public transport connectivity will play a key role in making the airport easily accessible for travelers from Visakhapatnam and nearby regions.
With the launch of these 20 electric buses, APSRTC aims to offer affordable, safe, and eco-friendly transportation while strengthening connectivity between the city and the new airport. The project marks another important step in Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to modernize its public transport system and encourage sustainable urban mobility.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
