Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh — July 26: As the region prepares for the inauguration of the Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) International Airport at Bhogapuram, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has introduced an electric bus service connecting Visakhapatnam with the upcoming airport. A fleet of 20 electric AC buses was flagged off by Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy.

The initiative, linked to the PM e-bus scheme, is aimed at providing comfortable and environmentally friendly public transport for air passengers and other commuters travelling between Visakhapatnam and the Bhogapuram airport.

Route Network and Operational Coverage

The service is planned to operate between major transit points in Visakhapatnam and the Bhogapuram Airport terminal, with the fleet divided across two proposed corridors covering residential, business and other key areas.

Route 1 (Western Arterial Corridor): The route begins at Gajuwaka and connects key locations including NAD Junction, Gurudwara, Maddilapalem, Madhurawada, Anandapuram and Tagarapuvalasa before reaching the airport terminal. The total transit time is estimated at around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Route 2 (Coastal & IT Corridor): The second route begins from Gajuwaka/Scindia and connects through Vizag Railway Station, RTC Complex, VMRDA Park along Beach Road, Rushikonda and the IT Hills before proceeding towards Bhogapuram. The journey is expected to take approximately 2 hours.

The service is scheduled to operate daily, with the first morning bus reportedly leaving Gajuwaka at 4:00 AM and the final return service departing from Bhogapuram Terminal at 7:00 PM. Passengers are advised to check the latest APSRTC schedule before travelling.

Modern Fleet Features and Charging Infrastructure

The 12-metre air-conditioned buses, manufactured by Pinnacle Mobility Solutions under the EKA Mobility brand, are intended for airport and long-distance passenger transport.

The buses are equipped with features including air conditioning, air suspension, dedicated luggage space, live-location tracking and onboard CCTV surveillance. Accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts, have also been included to support passengers with disabilities.

Charging infrastructure has been planned at the Bhogapuram Airport terminal, along with charging facilities at the Gajuwaka and Simhachalam depots. Passenger facilities are also being developed at selected pickup points, including NAD Junction, VMRDA Park and Gurudwara.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The electric bus service is expected to provide an additional public transport option for airport passengers, airport employees and other commuters. Compared with private taxis, public bus services may offer a more economical travel option, while electric buses can help reduce tailpipe emissions.

The initial launch of 20 electric buses is expected to be followed by further expansion of the green public transport network in the Visakhapatnam region. APSRTC has indicated plans to expand its electric bus fleet in phases, with the broader objective of increasing zero-emission public transport options across North Andhra.