Minister Osman Mahomed: CNT to Potentially Acquire 200 New Buses

In an address on Radio Plus’s Anou Azir programme, hosted by journalist Murvind Beetun, Osman Mahomed, the Minister of Public Transport, outlined a transformative step for public transport in Mauritius. Speaking on Thursday, 27th March, Minister Mahomed confirmed that the Central Procurement Board is presently assessing tenders for the purchase of 100 diesel buses.

“If all goes to plan, the CNT will proudly operate a fleet of 200 new buses,” he asserted.

In a noteworthy shift towards sustainability, the Minister also announced that the additional 100 buses will be entirely electric, generously donated by the Indian government to Mauritius.

“We are currently constructing charging stations for these electric vehicles,” he noted, highlighting the commitment to fostering greener transportation options.

These innovative buses are being produced by Switch Mobility, the commercial vehicle division of Ashok Leyland.

Furthermore, Mahomed pointed out that the Indian government is managing the tender process, including evaluation and contract award, ensuring an efficient and effective approach.

Minister Mahomed mentioned the possible need to reconsider the existing model of free public transport, suggesting that a revision could benefit the travelling public.

As Mauritius paves the way for the future of public transport, the expected arrival of these new vehicles signals concerns for enhanced and sustainable mobility.

Source: Defi Media