BMTC to run buses using 15% methanol-blended fuel

For the first time, Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) will run some of its city buses using methanol-blended fuel. The buses will be operated on a pilot basis. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will flag off pilot trials of MD15 buses on the premises of Vidhana Soudha on Sunday, March 12. Buses will run on 15% methanol-blended fuel. On this occasion, a truck that runs on 100% methanol (M 100) will be launched.

As per the information provided by Niti Aayog, on “Methanol Economy”, methanol is a low-carbon, hydrogen carrier fuel produced from high ash coal, agricultural residue, CO 2 from thermal power plants and natural gas.

Every day, city buses operated in Bengaluru consume over 2.5 lakh litres of diesel. Expenditure on fuel has been a major component of the corporation’s spending.