The authorities in Kargil have introduced the first batch of four electric buses as part of their efforts to transform Ladakh into a carbon-neutral Union Territory and develop Leh and Kargil into smart cities. These buses, provided by SIDCO Transport, Ladakh, are 100 per cent zero-emission vehicles.

To cater to the transportation needs of the local community, one of the electric buses will cover Kargil town in a clockwise direction, including the area of the new district hospital.

Another bus will make three trips a day from Kargil to Sankoo. The third bus will operate from Kargil to Drass and back, while the fourth bus will run daily from Kargil to Leh.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Councilor of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil, Feroz Ahmad Khan, emphasised that the main goal behind introducing electric vehicles is to reduce carbon emissions and make Ladakh a more carbon-neutral Union Territory.

Additionally, these buses aim to provide improved public transportation facilities for local commuters in the region.

During the launch of the e-buses, Feroz Ahmad Khan and Member of Parliament from Ladakh, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, flagged off the vehicles. The event was attended by senior officers, including commissioner secretary Ajeet Kumar Sahu and Kargil deputy commissioner Santosh Sukhadeve.

During their visit, they enjoyed a trail ride in an e-bus from TFC to Council Secretariat, Zamisthiang, and then Baroo, before returning to TFC. Khan expressed his enthusiasm for these environment-friendly buses, stating that they will greatly improve public transportation in the area. With charging points available at multiple locations, this facility can easily meet the demands of the public.

Namgyal also highlighted the positive impact of these buses, as they contribute to Ladakh's goal of becoming a carbon-neutral UT and take a step forward in making Kargil and Leh smart cities, according to PTI report.

Sahu emphasised the transport department's commitment to enhancing the public transport system in Kargil, and the introduction of electric buses is a significant step in this direction.

He instructed the relevant department to establish fixed timings for all buses on all routes, ensuring better organisation and convenience for the public.