Mauritius Receives 10 New Electric Buses from India

Since the 6th August, ten new electric buses have been operating on the island’s roads. The launch took place at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation in Réduit, which became a showcase for sustainable mobility. These buses were officially gifted by India as part of a broader effort to modernize public transport.

This is just the beginning. A total of 100 electric buses will be delivered, with 90 more set to arrive by the end of the year.

This marks a significant step in Mauritius’s shift toward cleaner energy and greener transportation.

Several government officials attended the event, including Environment Minister Rajesh Bhagwan, Higher Education Minister Kaviraj Sukon, Junior Ministers Rajen Narsinghen and Dhaneshwar Damry.

Transport Minister Osman Mahomed provided details about the project.

Transport Minister Mahomed explained that the initial batch of ten buses is part of a larger fleet of 100 electric vehicles.

The remaining 90 buses are being manufactured in India and will arrive in three shipments of 30 each before year’s end.

To support this transition, charging stations are being installed, mostly operating at night after 10 p.m. to avoid straining the electrical grid during peak hours.

This initiative goes beyond replacing diesel buses; it represents a new approach to sustainable mobility.

Minister Mahomed highlighted that the project includes installing solar panels at five bus depots, in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme. This will help reduce reliance on coal-fired electricity.

The new electric buses have been on the roads since Wednesday, 6th August. Each bus is equipped with five surveillance cameras, seat belts, USB charging ports for phones, and a driver control system, offering a combination of comfort, safety, and advanced technology.

Maintaining this fleet requires new skills. Indian technicians are already training local engineers, mechanics, and electricians.

Discussions are also underway with educational institutions to develop specialized training programs for these roles.

Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam emphasized the importance of the Indo-Mauritian partnership. He highlighted that India has supported many projects in Mauritius.

The electric buses, costing about Rs 10 million each, are a generous gift. The arrival of 100 vehicles will help protect the environment and create jobs.

Ramgoolam acknowledged that rebuilding the country will take time, especially after the legacy of the previous government.

However, he considers this a positive step forward. He pointed out that this effort builds on previous initiatives like the Metro Express and continues the country’s progress toward sustainable development.

Source: l’Express