Navi Mumbai: In a major push towards green and sustainable public transport, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Transport (NMMT) has announced plans to add 100 new CNG and electric buses to its existing fleet. The initiative is aimed at improving urban mobility while significantly reducing the city’s carbon footprint and dependence on diesel-powered vehicles.
According to officials, the new buses will be inducted as part of the transport body’s “Green Fleet” expansion programme, which focuses on introducing cleaner and more energy-efficient vehicles. The decision is backed by a budgetary allocation of ₹652 crore, which also covers infrastructure upgrades such as new bus terminals, charging stations, and solar-powered facilities.
Of the proposed 100 buses, a significant portion will run on CNG fuel, while the remaining will be fully electric buses, designed to offer a cleaner and quieter commuting experience for passengers. Officials said that the addition of these buses will help NMMT gradually phase out older diesel vehicles and move towards a fully eco-friendly transport system in the coming years.
The transport authority has also submitted a proposal to the central government for an additional 100 electric buses under the Pradhan Mantri E-Bus Seva Yojana, which, if approved, will further strengthen the city’s green mobility network. This dual approach reflects both state and central collaboration in modernising urban transport infrastructure.
Officials highlighted that NMMT already operates a sizeable number of eco-friendly buses, including electric and CNG-powered vehicles, and the latest addition will further expand its capacity to serve growing commuter demand across Navi Mumbai, Thane, Panvel, and surrounding regions. The expansion comes at a time when the city is witnessing rapid urban growth and increased pressure on public transport systems.
In addition to fleet expansion, the civic transport body is investing in support infrastructure such as EV charging stations and CNG refuelling points at key depots and terminals. These facilities are expected to ensure smooth operations and reduce downtime for buses, making the system more efficient and reliable.
The initiative is also aligned with broader environmental goals, as the shift to electric and CNG buses is expected to help reduce air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve overall urban air quality. Experts believe that such transitions in public transport are crucial for rapidly growing metropolitan regions like Navi Mumbai.
Passengers are also expected to benefit from the expansion, as NMMT continues to offer concessions for students, senior citizens, and women, ensuring affordable and inclusive transport services. Officials said that route expansions and improved frequency will be introduced alongside the new buses to enhance commuter convenience.
With the upcoming addition of these 100 CNG and electric buses, NMMT is taking a significant step toward building a modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable public transport system. The move is expected to not only improve connectivity across the Navi Mumbai region but also serve as a model for other urban transport bodies aiming to transition toward greener mobility solutions.
