GIS – 06 August 2025: The donation of the electric buses by the Government of India to Mauritius marks a paradigm shift in the use of the latest technology in the bus industry, shifting from the use of conventional diesel to electricity. It is a leap forward for public transport efficiency, revolutionising the commuting experience with lower operating costs, less noise pollution and enhanced passenger comfort.
The Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, made this statement, this morning, as he inaugurated a first batch of 10 electric buses out of a total of 100, offered by the Indian Government to the National Transport Corporation (NTC), at a ceremony held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and Innovation in Réduit.
Several eminent personalities including the Minister of Land Transport, Mr Mahomed Osman Cassam Mahomed; and the High Commissioner of the Republic of India to Mauritius, Mr Anurag Srivastava, were present on the occasion.
The Prime Minister expressed his deep gratitude to the Government of the Republic of India for the donation of the electric buses provided under the Development Assistance Programme, which he said, is a testimony of the special, robust and flourishing relations between Mauritius and India, and also reflects the common vision for a sustainable future.
He pointed out that the introduction of electric buses is a critical step in reducing our carbon footprints, cutting fuel imports, and improving air quality. By transitioning to clean public transport, we are not only protecting our environment, but also assuring a more sustainable future for generations to come, said Dr Ramgoolam.
As part of its first International Electric Mobility Project, India through Switch Mobility Automobile Limited, Mauritius is privileged to be the first country in the region to operate electric buses on a large scale, recalled Prime Minister Ramgoolam. He reflected on the unique bonds shared by Mauritius and India which are showcased in the many existing Agreements, technical assistance and mutual values. These bonds were further strengthened during the State visit of the Indian Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in March 2025, the Prime Minister added.
Speaking about Government’s mission and visionary objectives for the progress and development of the country, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam stated that Mauritius will have to count on the support of its traditional development partners, especially India, where it can play meaningful roles in crucial areas of cooperation such as Artificial Intelligence, ocean economy, food security and maritime security.
On his part Minister Mahomed rejoiced that the donation of electric buses comes at a critical moment, as the NTC is in the dire need to renew a major part of its fleet of 500 buses, stressing that similarly to the Metro Express project, it will contribute significantly in Mauritius’ quest for sustainability in land transport. He announced that the buses will be on the road as from today itself, and that they will be charged outside the peak hours.
He moreover underpinned the importance of the electric buses at a time when the Ministry is embarking on the process of rethinking and modernising of the bus industry in line with the Government Programme 2025-29.
As for the High Commissioner, Mr Anurag Srivastava, he pointed out that the event marks yet another significant milestone in the two countries’ longstanding ties which are rooted in history, propelled by shared vision of progress and prosperity.
He recalled that during the landmark visit of Shri Narendra Modi to Mauritius, the Indian Prime Minister and Prime Minister Ramgoolam pledged to elevate the relations to an enhanced strategic partnership with greater cooperation in a large number of areas, including the commitment to support Mauritius in its green transition and strengthen its energy security.
With regard to the green energy partnership, India is privileged to support Mauritius through the donation of electric buses, that will contribute meaningfully to bring down emission of greenhouse gases, reduce running costs, and enhance overall commuting experience, said Mr Anurag Srivastava. He added that India is supporting the efforts of Mauritius to increase the share of renewable sources in its energy mix, renewing commitment to back up Mauritius in all aspects of its energy transition.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
