Ambala to Unveil New Electric Bus Stand with Advanced Amenities

Ambala residents can look forward to a new bus stand on 2.47 acres of land in the Sushma Swaraj Bus Stand complex. This facility, constructed at a significant cost, will feature state-of-the-art amenities and cater exclusively to electric buses.

The project includes a two-storey building and an electric bus depot, with a separate power station to ensure uninterrupted charging.

The depot will have a dedicated hotline for charging electric buses, with an estimated expenditure of Rs. 11.95 crores. The tender notice was issued on Thursday, and bids will be opened on 11th July. Once awarded, the contractor is expected to complete the project within eight months, aiming for a public opening by February-March 2025.

Footpaths will be constructed around the depot, and the two-storey building will include a workshop for electric buses with a charging station capable of servicing 17 buses simultaneously. Additionally, there will be parking arrangements for 40 buses. An operation and control room will also be established within the workshop.

The facility will feature separate entrance and exit gates for buses, a green belt surrounding the bus stand, and a drainage system to manage water from bus washing activities. A 2 lakh litre tank will ensure water supply, and a fire tank will be installed for emergency situations. Harvesting pits at both ends of the bus stand will help conserve water.

To support staff well-being, the depot will include a kitchen and kitchen store for continuous operation. Separate canteens and recreation rooms for men and women will also be provided. The administrative block will resemble that of a normal bus stand, complete with a lift, ticket counter, cash room window, and computer room.

Arrival of Electric Buses

A total of 50 electric buses are expected at the Ambala depot, with five arriving in the first phase as a trial. These initial buses are anticipated to reach Ambala in the first week of July and will temporarily be parked at the existing bus stand complex.

This new development promises to enhance public transportation in Ambala significantly while promoting sustainable practices through the use of electric buses.