Government has launched a Bus Modernization Programme which will enable all bus operators to renew their fleet, at no extra cost, with new generation buses which are:

(i) Environmentally friendly with reduced emissions;

(ii) more comfortable; and

(iii) with low floors to speed and facilitate boarding, especially for the elderly and handicapped.

The programme will reduce harmful emissions by almost 11,000 tons a year and will also support our efforts to encourage greater use of public transport. It will provide a subsidy to be financed by a grant from the Maurice Ile Durable Fund (MID) and the proceeds from an increase in the Road Tax. The whole bus fleet of 600 could be renewed within three years at a total estimated subsidy of around Rs 250 million. It may also be possible to obtain Carbon Credits from the Clean Development Mechanism.

A Consultant has been hired to assist in the procurement of improved buses. This Ministry has also resorted to consultancy services to assist with quality control for performance of bus modernization programme.