Nagpur: The Transport Committee of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation has placed strong emphasis on increasing non-ticket revenue streams while enhancing eco-friendly public transport services in the city.

Transport Committee Chairperson Mangala Khekare presented the department’s budget for the financial year 2026–27 to Standing Committee Chairperson Shivani Dani-Wakhare at the Dr. Punjabrao Deshmukh Smruti Hall on April 20.

The proposed budget for 2026–27 stands at ₹575.58 crore, compared to the revised budget of ₹418.40 crore for 2025–26. Khekare stated that the department is expected to maintain a closing balance of ₹68.38 lakh by March 2027.

During her address, Khekare highlighted that the upcoming year will focus on implementing key transport initiatives while strengthening the department’s financial stability. She also reaffirmed the commitment to providing Nagpur residents with a public transport system that is efficient, safe, comfortable, affordable, and environmentally sustainable.

Commercial Complexes Planned at Bus Depots to Increase Revenue

To generate additional income, the Transport Department plans to develop commercial complexes on land owned at bus depots across the city and its outskirts. Key locations identified include Mor Bhavan Bus Stand 1 and 2, Patwardhan, Lakadganj (Matrushakti), Hingna, Wadi, and Khapri depots.

An allocation of ₹40 crore has been made in the budget for these developments. Additionally, existing kiosk spaces at bus stops will be converted into small commercial units such as coffee centers, service kiosks, and photocopy shops, which will be leased to generate revenue.

Expansion of Electric Bus Fleet and Sustainable Transport Push

Currently, the Transport Department operates a fleet of 580 buses, including:

• 385 electric buses
• 150 diesel midi buses
• 45 mini buses

With rising vehicle numbers contributing to congestion and pollution in Nagpur, the administration aims to strengthen public transport to promote environmental sustainability.

Under support from Devendra Fadnavis, a grant of ₹137 crore has been provided for the procurement of 250 standard air-conditioned electric buses, of which 105 buses have already been received.

Additionally, under a central government e-bus initiative launched by Narendra Modi, 150 electric midi buses have been sanctioned and introduced into the city. These services were virtually inaugurated by the Prime Minister.

Further strengthening the fleet, a proposal has been sent to the central government for 25 articulated buses with flash charging technology, conceptualized under the guidance of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Key Budget Highlights for 2026–27

• ₹40 crore allocated for development works within bus depots and surrounding areas
• ₹10 crore earmarked for land acquisition and depot infrastructure upgrades
• Installation of CCTV cameras at every bus stop
• Rationalization of ticket fares
• Introduction of new bus routes across the city
• Increased revenue generation through advertisements at depots

Focus on Integrated and Efficient Public Transport

The Transport Committee aims to streamline Nagpur’s public transport network by improving operational efficiency and expanding connectivity to nearby areas. Officials believe that a stronger and more accessible public transport system will help reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve overall urban mobility.