News Link: Kerala Government Converts Diesel Run KSRTC Buses to LNG
In order to become environment friendly and to save cost of operation, Kerala Government run Transport Corporation (KSRTC) converting its buses to CNG operated ones.
First phase, it is planning to convert 400 buses to the Eco-Friendly category. Transport Department had given a go-ahead for this.
An average Cost of converting one bus from Diesel fuel to LNG (Liquified Natural Gas) will be INR 25 Lakhs. A Total of 100 Crore is the expected cost of first phase conversion. The amount consists of conversion charges with required repair works and one-year warranty. Also, being a high amount, there is a concern of return of investment also raised.
‘Central Government’s surface transport department had already declared its help for converting diesel buses into Eco-Friendly LNG Fuel’ – Said an official of the Transport Department Secretary.
To meet current expense of 100 Crore rupees will be arranged as a loan from KIIFB at 4% annum interest rate. Said KSRTC Managing Director.
KSRTC is having a wing that builds bus body now. A structure of LNG fuelled buses also made by it and submitted for approval. The approval for the same from ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India) is still awaited. Due to the approval issue, KSRTC decided to go with current plan of Diesel to LNG Conversion.
In 2016, the corporation had a test of LNG Vehicle that was bought for the purpose. The state has limited infrastructure for refilling LNG at current status. A concern about practicality of running these eco-friendly buses also been raised from corners. Moreover, approvals from entities like Petroleum and Explosive Safety Organisation (PESO) also would be required to ply on the road.
Arrangements for making safety of buses as well as passengers should be in place. Similarly, a study of loss-making possibility while converting underproductive diesel buses to LNG ones also required. Anticipating such concerns from various fronts, Transport Department is planning to implement the conversion process in multiple stages. Initially 50 buses are being considered. After that, once PESO approval is in place, balance quantity also will be converted – the note conclusion says.
Compiled by – AS (Copy Desk)
Read more news at Environment Segment
News Link: Kerala Government Converts Diesel Run KSRTC Buses to LNG
