Shillong, June 9: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Monday said the introduction of electric buses (e-buses) under the PM eBus Seva Scheme marks a significant step towards improving public transportation, reducing travel costs, and easing traffic congestion in Shillong.
Speaking at the launch programme, the Chief Minister said governance is not merely about envisioning change but about translating that vision into concrete action. He noted that improving public transportation in Shillong has been one of the government’s major challenges and that various models have been explored over the years, including school bus systems, conventional public buses and now electric buses.
According to Sangma, the government is continuously working to identify a transportation model best suited to the needs of Shillong’s residents. The primary objective, he said, is to encourage greater use of public transport and reduce dependence on private vehicles, thereby addressing the city’s growing traffic congestion.
Expressing optimism over the initiative, he said the current fleet of e-buses is only the beginning and that more such buses will be introduced in the future. He expressed confidence that the project would significantly improve urban mobility and contribute to better traffic management across the city.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen urban infrastructure, including the construction of parking facilities across Shillong. Referring to the parking complex near the Additional Secretariat, he said the facility is witnessing increasing public use, indicating a gradual shift in public behaviour and acceptance of traffic management measures.
Sangma further stated that the upcoming New Administrative City at Mawdiangdiang will play a key role in reducing congestion within Shillong. He said multiple road links are being developed to connect the existing city with the new Secretariat complex and administrative hub.
Once a substantial number of government offices are relocated to the new administrative city, additional space will become available in Shillong for road widening, pedestrian infrastructure, green spaces and other public amenities, he added.
While refraining from disclosing the government’s entire roadmap, the Chief Minister said all ongoing projects are part of a broader strategy aimed at creating a more efficient, sustainable and people-friendly urban environment.
On the promotion of electric vehicles (EVs), Sangma informed that the state’s policy providing exemptions on registration fees and road taxes for EVs had expired after three years. However, he said the government is preparing to renew and extend the policy following an upcoming Cabinet meeting.
Urging citizens to embrace electric mobility, he described EVs as practical, economical and environmentally friendly, particularly for a hill state like Meghalaya. Addressing concerns regarding charging infrastructure, he noted that EVs can be conveniently charged at home, similar to charging a mobile phone.
Sharing his personal experience, Sangma said he had driven an electric vehicle from Shillong to Sohra and back, demonstrating the suitability of EVs for hilly terrain. He explained that regenerative braking technology enables batteries to recharge while descending slopes, making electric vehicles particularly efficient in mountainous regions.
The Chief Minister also announced that senior government officials and Cabinet Ministers would gradually begin using electric vehicles to encourage wider adoption among the public.
He added that establishing EV charging stations is relatively straightforward and can be completed within a few days where adequate parking space is available. The government, he said, is also willing to support communities and landowners interested in setting up charging infrastructure under its parking space development initiatives.
Concluding his address, Sangma said the launch of e-buses is not a standalone initiative but part of a long-term vision to build a cleaner, greener and less congested Shillong through a modern, efficient and sustainable public transport system.
