MSRTC to convert 5,000 diesel buses to LNG

Five diesel buses have already been converted to LNG, with decisions pending on whether these will operate in Mumbai or Nashik.

MSRTC officials have invited quotations for LNG supply rates in both cities, and the final choice of routes will depend on the most cost-effective options, said an official.

The official added that to ensure uninterrupted operations of the converted buses, the MSRTC also plans to establish its own LNG fuel station. This will help address the challenge of limited LNG availability along bus routes.

The state government has allocated Rs 970 crore for the project, which is expected to significantly reduce operational costs.

LNG offers substantial savings

LNG is cheaper than diesel, and an LNG-powered bus can travel 700-750 km on a single tank, offering substantial savings, the official said.

In addition, the shift to LNG is expected to lower the carbon footprint of MSRTC’s fleet.

The diesel buses being converted are about seven years old, with the cost of conversion estimated at Rs 5.15 lakh per vehicle.

MSRTC operates a fleet of 14,000 diesel buses.

Alongside the LNG conversion, the corporation has initiated a separate programme to convert 1,000 diesel buses to CNG (Compressed Natural Gas). Of these, 500 buses are already operational, further contributing to reduced fuel costs.