Mahanagar Yatayat launches 16 new electric buses in Kathmandu Valley

Kathmandu – Mahanagar Yatayat Pvt. Ltd. has expanded its services by launching 16 new electric buses. These buses, which began operating on the Ring Road in the Kathmandu Valley from Wednesday, are expected to modernize and make public transport more environmentally friendly.

It is reported that electric buses are generating better revenue compared to diesel buses due to lower operational costs and simpler technology. The new electric buses, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, offer comfortable seating with a capacity of 33 seats.

The buses are well-equipped with modern passenger safety systems and organized structures. Imported from China by Shashila Motors Pvt. Ltd., these buses feature a 144-kilowatt CTL battery, capable of covering approximately 200 kilometers on a full charge.

The company has stated that each bus costs Rs. 13.19 million. During the service inauguration program, Keshav Nepal, Secretary of Mahanagar Yatayat Pvt. Ltd., mentioned that electric vehicles are becoming a necessity and the company plans to expand investments in this sector.

Despite the high initial investment, electric buses are deemed commercially viable and effective in terms of revenue, he added. Dharma Raj Rimal, a member of the company’s board of directors, noted that 12 electric buses had already been successfully operated, and more buses have been added in this phase.

At the key handover ceremony, Santosh Khatri, Managing Director of Shashila Motors, emphasized that promoting large electric buses is essential today, highlighting their significance not only for businesses and passengers but also for improving the country’s transportation system.

The company is working with the goal of establishing commercial electric vehicles in Nepal and prioritizing post-sale service systems. Mahanagar Yatayat Pvt. Ltd. currently provides services with over 140 vehicles in and outside the Kathmandu Valley, operating 28 city buses and 24 microbuses, including 52 electric vehicles.