Sajha Yatayat extends services with added 40 electric buses

Sajha Yatayat has expanded its transportation services in Kathmandu Valley by introducing 40 electric buses and establishing 24 charging stations.

Following the government investment of Rs 3bn, allocated during the tenure of former Prime Minister KP Oli, Sajha has decided to spend the sum into three parts. Sajha Chairman Kanakmani Dixit said that in the first phase, 40 electric buses and 24 charging depots have been put into operation. These nine-meter-long electric buses can accommodate up to 50 passengers.

In addition, Dixit emphasized that Sajha Yatayat buses will traverse both inner and outer roads of the Kathmandu Valley in this initial phase.

A common charging counter for electric buses is situated at the Pulchowk-based Sajha Yatayat office. Furthermore, two charging points have been established at the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) head office for use by Sajha Yatayat.

Moreover, Dixit announced that Sajha Yatayat has commenced the procurement process for 12-meter electric buses through an international tender.

The inauguration of the buses and charging stations was conducted by Minister of Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Raghubir Mahaseth. He highlighted that the plan to operate electric buses through Sajha Yatayat, initiated by the KP Oli government four years ago, has now come to fruition. Mahaseth stressed the importance of electric transport in promoting environmental cleanliness and reducing trade losses.

Kulman Ghising, managing director of Nepal Electricity Authority, noted that the operating cost of electric vehicles is 10 times cheaper than diesel and petrol vehicles. He expressed confidence that Sajha’s promotion of electric vehicles in mass transportation would soon prove profitable. Similarly, Lalitpur Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan assured ongoing support for Sajha Yatayat from the metropolis, indicating that funds have been allocated for the operation of electric buses within the city.