RTC temporarily suspends operation of JBM electric buses for safety reasons

The JBM electric buses operating in the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation’s fleet will be temporarily suspended due to battery-related accidents, according to the state transport utility.

This major step has been taken in the interest of passenger safety and will impact all TGSRTC depots. The decision comes after an incident that was reported on June 21. “Considering the safety of passengers, employees and general public as its highest priority, the management of TGSRTC has decided to suspend the services,” TGSRTC said.

The company has demanded detailed reports from JBM, thorough analysis of incidents, permanent preventive measures, battery fitness certification and setting up of a command control center at Bus Bhavan. TGSRTC added that the process was initiated by JBM. The technical team, together with a team of battery experts from China, are studying the incidents, the circumstances that led to them and the required preventive measures.

Only after the company is satisfied that JBM has met the specified conditions, a final decision will be made to resume the services of those vehicles that are certified as roadworthy by the company’s technical team.

A TGSRTC official said there are 1,050 electric buses of various brands, of which about 500 are JBM electric buses. Most of these buses operate intercity routes. TGSRTC is making alternate arrangements to fill the gap left by these buses with other buses.

Published – 3 Jul 2026 0:05 AM IST