THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Transport Department of Kerala approved the acquisition of 950 electric buses sanctioned by the Center. However, uncertainties arose when the Finance Department ceased operations. On October 4, the Transport Department confirmed acceptance of the buses under the Pradhan Mantri E-Bus Seva scheme for operation in Kerala cities. But further action stalled due to the Finance Department's closure.

Kerala missed participation in the December 14 tender process as the Finance Department failed to progress. The scheme necessitates a payment security mechanism for bus procurement requiring a government guarantee. To facilitate this, a collaborative corpus fund of 83 crores, with a state share of 48 crores, is needed. This fund aims to ensure timely rent payment and uninterrupted electricity supply to the bus company.

States following the correct procedure secured 3975 buses, with Karnataka requesting 795, of which 350 were allocated in the initial phase. Initially hesitant, Kerala's government fearing political motives, eventually engaged in the 'Pradhan Mantri E-Bus Seva' project after intervention by Transport Minister Antony Raju.

The introduction of electric buses could save up to 25 crores monthly on diesel costs. These buses can cover up to 350 km on a single charge, with a rent of 54 per km with 22 supported by the Center. The private company providing the buses also manages driver hiring, payments, charging, taxes and insurance.

The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is responsible for appointing and paying conductors at a rate of Rs 8 per km.