New Delhi: Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) is at the forefront of efforts to mitigate carbon emissions. It operates a fleet of over 636 buses and is under procurement stage for another 1745 buses. At present, more than 10 million passengers are using the OSRTC service annually and it is anticipated that after augmenting the additional fleets, more than 1.64 billion passengers annually, the corporation said.Diptesh Kumar Pattnayak, Chairman and Managing Director, OSRTC,, said, “OSRTC is committed to the environment through its strategic development and transformation initiatives, overseen by Palladium India as a Project Management Consultant. We have embarked on a journey to not just reduce carbon footprints but to redefine the standards of excellence in the transport industry.”
“We are constantly upgrading our existing fleet with modern engines and emission control systems to reduce carbon emissions and enhance fuel efficiency. Further by augmenting emission efficient fleets almost 3 times of its existing fleet, OSRTC aims to reduce emissions and contribute to improved air quality and further complying to the SDG parameters,” he added.
OSRTC has adopted cleaner fuel technologies by shifting from conventional fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives, such as increasing the use of AdBlue. Around 38% of its ongoing fleet is being upgraded with technology to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, OSRTC plans to incorporate further 1745 Conventional Diesel Buses complying with BS-VI Emission norms, which could result in an annual carbon reduction of approximately 11 million tons, the corporation said in a media release..
OSRTC also launched many training and capacity building initiatives to encourage its drivers to adopt eco-driving practices, such as maintaining steady speeds, reducing unnecessary idling, and implementing efficient driving techniques. Also, a major focus is being put on the maintenance tracker and daily checklist to effectively oversee and handle the maintenance of its fleet. Collaboration with five reputable body builders and an approved insurance partner further ensures regular vehicle servicing, maximizing performance, fuel efficiency, and minimizing emissions.
“OSRTC is one of the few state transport corporations which generate electricity using solar power on its rooftops, contributing clean energy to the Grid Corporation of Odisha. This sustainable energy production method significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and effectively mitigates air pollution,” the chairman said.
The state transport also has its own Integrated Transport Management System (ITMS) that helps optimize route planning, reduce congestion, and improve fuel efficiency, the release said.
Amit Patjoshi, CEO, Palladium India, said, “As Strategic Consultation Partner, Palladium backs OSRTC’s vision to create a greener, cleaner, and more efficient public transportation system. We are proud to be associated with an organization that strikes a harmonious balance between meeting its financial objectives and ensuring a positive impact on the environment, society, and stakeholders.
