The chief minister of Assam announced today that licences of 63 electric‑bus operators in Guwahati have been revoked. The decision follows a spate of accidents over the past months that raised serious concerns over passenger safety and regulatory compliance.

Background: The E‑Bus Initiative

In 2022, Assam launched an ambitious green‑transport programme, deploying 271 electric buses across Guwahati to curb air pollution, reduce dependence on diesel‑petrol fleets, and modernise public transit. Early performance data highlighted lower emissions, reduced operating costs and a smoother ride experience for commuters.

Accident Wave and Government Response

However, within a few months, a series of collisions, brake failures and reckless overtaking incidents marred the initiative. Local news outlets reported injuries to passengers and, in some cases, total loss of vehicles. Investigations revealed that many drivers lacked adequate training and the requisite safety certifications, prompting the state to take decisive corrective action.

New Directive: Mandatory Left‑Lane Rule

The government issued a fresh decree mandating that all green‑colored electric buses must travel exclusively in the left lane. The policy aims to streamline traffic flow, increase stopping distances and minimise the likelihood of rear‑end crashes. Enforcement will be overseen by the city’s traffic management authority, with hefty fines and licence suspensions for non‑compliance.

Future Outlook and Potential Impact

Transport analysts suggest that strict adherence to the left‑lane rule could restore confidence in the e‑bus fleet and set a benchmark for other Indian metropolises contemplating electric public transport. To prevent recurrence, officials must invest further in driver education, route optimisation and real‑time monitoring technologies.

In sum, Guwahati’s hard‑line stance underscores a broader commitment to passenger safety while highlighting the challenges of scaling sustainable mobility solutions in fast‑growing urban centres.