Project description

The project aim is to modernise the bus transportation system in the city of Tbilisi. E5P grant is financing a supply of up to 200 modern new low-floor buses which will run on compressed natural gas (“CNG”) buses. In addition to capital investments, the project also include technical assistance funds to support project implementation, improve operational and financial performance of the bus company, and reform the public transport to improve the overall mobility in the City. The project benefits will include:

• Reliable and efficient public transport
• Better safety for the public and bus drivers
• Easier access to public transport for those with limited mobility, such as elderly and disabled
• Improved air quality
• Reduced operating costs
• Improved capacity of the client company and the City in managing investment project
• Study to improve the bus routes and mobilityThe launch of the new buses took place on 30 September 2016. The project also received EBRD Sustainability Award in the category for best Environment and Social Innovation. The award was presented to the Mayor of Tbilisi, Mr Davit Narmania, during the EBRD Annual Meeting in Cyprus on 12 May 2017.

Environmental benefits

The switch from old diesel to Euro VI CNG fuelled buses will result in a dramatic reduction in the amount of toxic air emissions, especially NOx and PM, the latter of which includes black carbon (PM2.5). The replacement of the bus fleet will thus improve local air quality markedly and bring substantial economic and public health benefits.