Mangaluru: In an upcoming initiative, the KSRTC in Mangaluru is set to launch electric buses for seamless transport to the Mangalore International airport, connecting it with neighboring areas such as Kasaragod, Bhatkal, and Manipal. This move comes after the previous introduction of Volvo buses failed to gain traction, resulting in their subsequent discontinuation.

Four electric buses are slated to operate on these specific routes, requiring only registration without the need for special permits. To ensure passenger convenience, the airline companies will furnish information regarding the electric bus schedules on their respective websites. Discussions between KSRTC officials and airline authorities are currently underway to facilitate this process.

Out of the 45 electric buses allocated to the Mangaluru division, four will be dedicated to the airport route, while the remainder will serve other key routes like Dharmasthala, Udupi, Kasaragod, Kundapura, and Bhatkal. To support the electric buses, charging stations will be strategically established in Mangaluru, Udupi, Kundapura, and Dharmasthala. Notably, the buses can cover a distance of 200 km on a single charge, with a full charging time of approximately four hours, limiting their feasibility for longer routes as stated by KSRTC officials.

Additionally, the Mangaluru division will introduce eight Pallakki buses featuring an innovative design for commuting between the city and Bengaluru. However, no new express buses have been approved, while the Puttur division has acquired nine new buses.

An appeal has been forwarded to the higher authorities to secure additional buses for 57 other routes, necessitating a workforce of 198 individuals, encompassing drivers, conductors, and technicians. If this proposal receives approval, commuters can expect enhanced connectivity between Mangaluru and locations such as Karkala, Moodbidri, and districts in North Karnataka.

Presently, the Mangaluru division grapples with a shortfall of 361 permanent staff members. While 187 individuals have been recruited on a contractual basis, an additional 180 staff members are still required, with a pending transfer of 40 to 50 staff members awaiting resolution.