TGSRTC plans electric autos for first-mile connectivity

Bridging the gap

Hyderabad's public transport network is set to get a greener, more flexible last-mile link. The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has proposed deploying electric autos to connect commuters from their homes to metro stations and bus stops, a move that could reshape how residents access the city's backbone transit systems.

The plan, reported by Telangana Today, is still in its formative stage. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of vehicles or the exact routes, but the intention is clear: to reduce the dependence on private vehicles for short trips and make public transport a more viable end-to-end option.

Why electric autos?

Electric three-wheelers offer several advantages over their petrol or diesel counterparts. They are quieter, cheaper to run, and produce zero tailpipe emissions, aligning with the city's broader sustainability goals. For TGSRTC, which already operates a large fleet of buses, adding e-autos would create a seamless feeder service without the high capital cost of expanding bus routes into narrow lanes and congested neighbourhoods.

The corporation has been exploring ways to improve passenger convenience for some time. First-mile connectivity has long been a pain point for commuters, particularly women and elderly passengers who may find walking to a station difficult, especially in summer heat. An affordable, reliable e-auto service could address that concern while also generating new revenue for the state operator.

Operational challenges ahead

Deploying a fleet of electric autos is not without hurdles. Charging infrastructure remains a key question — where will the vehicles recharge, and how long will it take? TGSRTC will need to set up charging points at strategic locations, possibly at its existing bus depots or in partnership with private operators.

Fares are another delicate issue. The corporation will have to strike a balance between keeping the service affordable and ensuring it is financially sustainable. Auto-rickshaw unions in the city have historically resisted new competition, and any rollout will likely require careful negotiation to avoid friction with existing drivers.

Regulatory approvals are also pending. The transport department will need to finalise permits, insurance norms, and driver training protocols before the first e-auto can hit the road.

A step towards cleaner mobility

The initiative fits into a larger pattern of Hyderabad's push for electric mobility. The city has already seen a gradual increase in electric buses and private EVs, supported by a growing network of charging stations. If the e-auto plan materialises, it would complement these efforts and signal to other Indian cities that state-run transport corporations can lead the charge on green last-mile solutions.

For now, TGSRTC is likely to run a pilot project before scaling up, a strategy that has worked for similar initiatives in other parts of the country. The corporation may also consider partnering with tech platforms for app-based bookings, making it easier for commuters to hail a ride on demand.

What remains to be seen is how quickly the plan moves from proposal to pavement. The coming months will be crucial as TGSRTC finalises its business model, selects operators, and rolls out the first batch of e-autos.