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Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) On the eve of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday flagged off 25 newly manufactured electric buses worth Rs 30 crore at the Statue of Unity in Kevadiya in Narmada district, in a major effort towards sustainable tourism and eco-friendly transport.
With this addition, Ekta Nagar now operates a total of 55 e-buses, providing tourists a free, comfortable and eco-friendly mode of travel across the region.
The Prime Minister’s green transport initiative aims to transform Ekta Nagar into India’s first model “e-city”, reflecting his comprehensive vision of clean mobility and sustainable development.
The new 9 meter long, air-conditioned e-buses can travel up to 180 km on a single charge. These have been designed with a focus on inclusivity, including special accessibility systems for passengers with disabilities, including hydraulic lifts for easy boarding and deboarding. Additionally, four pink seats have been reserved for women to ensure comfort and safety.
Speaking on the occasion, PM Modi said: “Ekta Nagar is not just a tourist destination; it is a living example of environmental consciousness and sustainable development. The addition of e-buses will ensure clean air, less noise pollution and modern amenities for visitors.”
Under the “India’s First E-City” initiative, the Statue of Unity Area Development and Tourism Governance Authority (SOUADTGAA) has gradually introduced various electric modes of transport including e-cars, e-rickshaws and now e-buses to promote carbon-neutral tourism and reduce vehicular emissions in the region.
First announced by PM Modi on World Environment Day 2021, the project has transformed Ekta Nagar into a symbol of eco-friendly tourism and technological progress. With the launch of the new fleet, visitors can now enjoy smart, free and sustainable mobility while exploring the Statue of Unity complex and surrounding attractions.
Inspired by the vision of the Prime Minister, Ekta Nagar is evolving into a global model of synergy between sustainability, innovation and tourism.
Minister and state spokesperson Jitu Vaghani announced that a grand celebration of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) will be organized at Ekta Nagar on October 31 to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Iron Man of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
–IANS
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