TGSRTC plans electric autos for first-mile connectivity

The Telangana government is reportedly planning to introduce electric auto-rickshaw services integrated with TGSRTC buses to improve first-mile and last-mile connectivity. The project is expected to begin in Hyderabad with a single-ticket system before expanding to other major cities

Hyderabad: In a move aimed at making public transport more accessible and commuter-friendly, the Transport Department is reportedly exploring the possibility of introducing electric auto-rickshaw services integrated with Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) operations.

The initiative is expected to improve first-mile and last-mile connectivity, a long-standing challenge for bus passengers travelling to and from bus stops in the capital region.

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The proposed service is expected to allow commuters to complete their journeys more conveniently by linking electric autos with the State’s bus network. Under the plan, passengers will be able to book both their bus journey and the connecting auto-rickshaw ride through a single ticketing system, eliminating the need to arrange separate transport at either end of the trip.

The electric autos will primarily transport passengers from residential areas to nearby bus stops before their journey and from bus stops to their final destinations after they alight.

RTC officials believe the integrated model will encourage more people to rely on public transport by reducing the inconvenience associated with reaching bus services.

According to information available, the project will be introduced in phases, with the first rollout planned across the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) limits. Based on the response and operational experience, the service will later be expanded to other major urban centres, including Karimnagar, Warangal and Nizamabad.

It is also learnt that discussions are underway with electric vehicle manufacturers to identify suitable vehicles and finalise the operational framework.

The government is also working on the logistics needed to integrate the service with TGSRTC’s existing transport network.