JBM Auto to supply 105 CNG buses to Noida by April

After the odd-even scheme to reduce pollution levels ended in Delhi recently, there was considerable talk about about the lack of adequate public transport, particularly for the physically challenged. Now travelling in the NCR-Noida and Greater Noida region is set to get a fillip as is commuting for the physically challenged as over 100 luxury low-floor buses are set to be rolled out by JBM Auto from April 2016 for Noida Metro Rail Company (NMRC). These ultra-low-floor buses will be equipped with modern features like the global positioning system (GPS), CCTV cameras, public address system and panic buttons similar to the Delhi Metro.

Among other features will be a uniform low floor and folding ramp so that passengers on wheelchairs can board and de-board with ease. The buses kneels 60 millimetres to enable boarding of old and physically challenged passengers, children and women, a company claimed first-of-its-kind feature in public transport buses in India.

The 35-seater bus will have a provision for wheelchairs with anchorages. The entire floor-in-saloon will be at the same level which means no steps inside the saloon, leading to 15-20 percent more space for standees when compared to the low entry bus claims the company. With the engine laid out transversely and no incline inside, passengers can also stand and move around at the rear of the bus, with no restriction from the roof.

These air-conditioned buses called CityLife have been manufactured by JBM Auto at its plant in Kosi Kalan, Uttar Pradesh. The bus has been designed keeping in mind Indian traffic and weather conditions. The bus sports a monocoque structure to ensure maximum strength and minimum weight, matching European standards for safety in case of front/side collision and rollover accidents. Additional safety is provided through five large diameter detachable cylinders with an automatic valve close in case of leakage. The CNG capacity of the buses is also higher at 900 litres compared to 700 litres of the existing buses currently on road.

Addressing the current high pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, the carbon footprint of these buses is very low as they run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), which emits significantly less pollutants than diesel or petrol.

Nishant Arya, executive director of the JBM Group, says, “These buses are equipped with the latest technologies to give passengers the most convenient and safe option of travel in today’s time of high pollution and traffic jams. The design of these buses allows maximum visibility for both passengers and outsiders, which enhances the safety aspect to a great extent.”

Also read: India’s Heavy Industries Ministry commissions new study to tackle pollution in NCR