Nagpur: In a push to modernise and financially stabilise the city’s public transport system, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation Transport Department has proposed a Rs 575.58 crore budget for the financial year 2026–27. The budget, presented by Transport Committee Chairperson Mangala Khekare to the Standing Committee on Monday, outlines a dual strategy, boosting non-fare revenue and accelerating the transition to eco-friendly buses.
A key highlight of the proposal is the monetisation of NMC’s transport assets. To reduce dependency on ticket revenue, the department plans to develop commercial complexes at prominent locations such as Mor Bhavan Bus Stand 1 and 2, Patwardhan, Lakadganj (Matrushakti), Hingna, Wadi, and Khapri. An allocation of Rs 40 crore has been earmarked for this initiative.
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Additionally, bus stop kiosks across the city are set to be transformed into compact business hubs. These spaces will be leased out for ventures like coffee shops, utility centres, and photocopy services, creating a steady stream of rental income while enhancing commuter convenience.
Green push gains momentum
With rising concerns over urban pollution, the civic body is intensifying its shift towards sustainable transport. Currently, the NMC operates a fleet of 580 buses, including 385 electric buses, 150 diesel midi-buses, and 45 mini-buses.
Under a Rs 137 crore grant from the state government, 105 standard AC electric buses have already been inducted out of the 250 sanctioned. Further strengthening the fleet, 150 e-midi buses have been approved under the PM e-Bus Sewa initiative and were virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The department has also proposed the introduction of 25 advanced articulated flash-charging buses and has submitted the proposal to the Central Government for approval.
Infrastructure and safety upgrades
The budget also lays strong emphasis on improving infrastructure and commuter safety. Around Rs 40 crore has been allocated for road and campus development within bus depots, while Rs 10 crore will be spent on upgrading depot facilities.
Plans are underway to install CCTV cameras at all bus stops, rationalise ticket pricing, and introduce new routes to improve connectivity across the city.
Financial outlook
Chairperson Khekare projected a closing balance of Rs 68.38 lakh by March 2027, expressing confidence that the proposed measures will strengthen the department’s financial health while ensuring safe, comfortable, and affordable transport for citizens.
The budget presentation was attended by Deputy Chairperson Sudhir Raut, Transport Manager Meghna Wasankar, Administrative Officer Yogesh Lunge, Vijay Hole, Mangala Maske, Sadhana Barde, Vishakha Mohod, Archana Padole, Rupali Thakur, Pooja Pathak, Wasim Khan, Abhijeet Jha, Aslam Mulla, and others.
