Nagpur’s scorching summer heat is now taking a toll on the city’s public transport system, with electric buses operating under the Aapli Bus network reportedly facing rapid battery drain amid temperatures crossing 44 degrees Celsius. The extreme weather conditions have started affecting the efficiency of the air-conditioned e-buses, forcing operators to send several vehicles for charging much earlier than usual.
According to officials associated with the service, the battery performance of the electric buses has dropped sharply during the ongoing heatwave. Under regular weather conditions, the buses are capable of covering nearly 100 kilometres on a full charge and can comfortably complete two rounds on their assigned routes. However, due to the intense summer heat in May, many buses are now able to run only around 60 kilometres before requiring recharging. In several instances, buses are being diverted to charging stations immediately after completing a single trip to prevent breakdowns during operations.
The Aapli Bus Nagpur service currently operates across 241 routes through six depots and serves more than 1.5 lakh commuters daily with a fleet of over 650 buses. A majority of these vehicles are electric and air-conditioned, introduced to provide eco-friendly and comfortable travel for passengers. However, transport staff say the rising temperatures have created new operational challenges, including increased charging time, fear of mid-route breakdowns and disruption in schedules. Staff members have also raised concerns over inadequate rest facilities at charging points, as drivers and conductors are often forced to wait for long hours while buses recharge.
The situation has once again highlighted how extreme weather conditions are beginning to impact the sustainability and day-to-day functioning of electric public transport systems in the city.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com