Online Desk 

The Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) has sought a Tk 4 billion (400 crore) government grant or equity support to purchase 100 electric buses and build the necessary charging infrastructure. The proposal includes Tk 2.4 billion for bus procurement, Tk 500 million for 25 charging stations, Tk 350 million for spare parts, Tk 200 million for training and technical support, Tk 250 million for transportation and registration, and Tk 300 million for depot development.

Although the Finance Division earlier recommended implementing the project through a development loan, BRTC argued that its current financial condition would not allow it to bear loan repayments and interest costs. As a public service provider, the corporation says it requires direct government funding.

Under the proposal, the electric buses will operate on key routes in Dhaka and intercity routes connecting divisional headquarters. BRTC says the project will support the government's green transport initiative by reducing carbon emissions, lowering dependence on fossil fuels, and cutting long-term operating costs. However, BIDS Director General Professor A.K. Enamul Haque stressed that transparency, accountability, and BRTC's long-term financial sustainability must be ensured before public funds are allocated.