With a fleet of around 6,400 buses operational in the city, a complete switch to CNG would play a major role in reduction of pollution levels. However, officials are also studying the difference between CNG and the new Bharat Stage Four (BSIV) and Bharat Stage 5 (BSV) fuels in order to choose the least polluting fuel.
“When CNG was introduced, BSIV fuel was not there. We will have to be absolutely sure that CNG is a better option compared to BSIV. BSV fuel will also be introduced soon and we want to make the right choice,” the official said.
One of the major reasons for taking such caution is the fact that CNG buses will push up bus fares that are already considered to be quite high by citizen groups. Ballpark figures by officials put the increase in fares around 25 to 30 per cent as maintenance costs will also be higher with CNG buses.
Unlike New Delhi, where existing buses were retrofitted to run on CNG, BMTC is planning a clean slate to begin with. “The ad-hoc way of retrofitting might not result in the levels of performance we expect. It also depends on the age of the vehicle and other factors. We do not want a low-performing vehicle after conversion.”
