Nagpur: Nagpur’s severe summer heat is now impacting not only residents but also the city’s public transport system, with electric buses operating under the Aapli Bus Nagpur network reportedly losing battery charge much faster due to soaring temperatures.

As temperatures in Nagpur continue to cross 44 degrees Celsius, the air-conditioned electric buses that form the backbone of the city’s modern public transport system are now requiring frequent recharging, even after completing just a single trip.

Electric Bus Range Drops From 100 Km to 60 Km

Officials and staff associated with the city bus service said the battery efficiency of the electric buses has dropped significantly during the ongoing heatwave.

Under normal conditions, the buses are capable of running nearly 100 kilometres on a full charge, allowing them to complete at least two trips comfortably. However, due to the extreme heat in May, many buses are now managing only around 60 kilometres before needing recharging.

In several cases, buses are reportedly being sent for charging immediately after completing one route to avoid the risk of breakdowns in the middle of operations.

Over 650 Buses Serving 1.5 Lakh Passengers Daily

The Aapli Bus Nagpur network operates from six depots across the city and currently covers 241 routes with 2,265 bus stops.

More than 650 buses run daily on major routes, connecting Nagpur city to suburban and peripheral areas while serving over 1.5 lakh passengers every day. A majority of these buses are electric and air-conditioned, introduced to improve passenger comfort and reduce pollution.

However, the ongoing heatwave has emerged as a major operational challenge for the electric fleet.

Fear of Mid-Journey Breakdowns

Transport staff said buses now require constant monitoring of battery levels during operations. If not charged on time, there is a growing risk of buses breaking down midway, leading to inconvenience for commuters.

The issue has also affected operational schedules, as buses spend more time at charging stations during the day.

Bus Staff Raise Concerns Over Lack of Facilities

A woman conductor working with the service said the additional waiting time during charging cycles is creating difficulties for staff members.

According to her, conductors and drivers are often left waiting for long periods without proper rest facilities at charging locations.

The situation has highlighted the wider impact of Nagpur’s intense summer temperatures not only on daily life and fuel consumption, but also on the efficiency and sustainability of electric public transport systems.