The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh News : APSRTC’s contribution to reducing pollution

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Thursday, Jun 05, 2008
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

APSRTC’s contribution to reducing pollution

For the first time in South India, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has introduced busses that run on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Vijayawada city. At present, we are depending on natural resources for our fuel and most of the fuel is used by industries. As per the present growth rate of vehicles, the transport sector is all set to occupy top slot in fuel consumption by 2020.

Approximately 95 per cent of transport vehicles are using petrol-based crude oil. As per the estimates of international oil companies, there will be an acute shortage of fuel resources in the near future in transport sector. Petrol-based fuel usage is also polluting the environment, creating greater health hazards to general public.

To avoid this, the APSRTC has introduced buses that run on CNG. Unlike diesel, CNG reduces pollution, generates less noise and also protects the health of the people. The APSRTC has introduced 95 buses in Vijayawada city and they have entered into an agreement with the Bhagyanagar Gas Limited for supply of gas.

The APSRTC subsequently set up a gas filling station on the premises of its Vidyadharapuram bus depot. To encourage drivers in fuel efficient-driving, the Regional Manager of APSRTC, Vijayawada has introduced the ‘Best Driver Award’.

Mr. M. N. Rao and Mr. G. A. Rao, both drivers of Vidyadharapuram depot, stood first for April and May, respectively, and received Rs. 250/- as cash prize.

“The APSRTC by introducing CNG buses is doing its bit to protect the environment and public health,” says Mr. Seethapathy Malla, Regional Manager of APSRTC, Vijayawada.

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