Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 16: Srinagar Smart City’s eco-friendly city bus service witnesses an increase in the flow of passengers with an average of 30,000 people boarding on a daily basis across 16 operational routes.
The eco-friendly public transport system, was launched in November 2023 and has now witnessed a remarkable growth in commuting, transporting 61,33,160 commuters from January to November this year.
According to the data, in September alone, the service recorded its highest passenger count of over 7.2 lakh, followed by August with over 6.82 lakh passengers.
However, as per the data when the bus services were started by Srinagar Smart City in November 2023, the month recorded a passenger count of just 1.3 lakh, followed by over 3.25 lakh in December 2023.
As per the officials, the green bus fleet includes 100 electric buses, with 75 nine-meter and 25 twelve-meter variants, with two additional buses kept on standby to address potential breakdowns.
The officials said that these electric buses are praised for being emission-free and that they offer advanced features like air conditioning, air curtains for consistent interior temperature, and five strategically placed cameras for enhanced safety.
The officials add that a panic button inside the buses is connected directly to a command-and-control centre, ensuring immediate assistance during emergencies.
Officials looking into the operations of smart buses under Srinagar Smart City earlier told KNO that they have developed an Integrated Public Transport System, detailing bus routes, stops, halting points, depots, and charging stations to streamline the service.
The officials said that to enhance passenger convenience, authorities plan to establish 360 ultra-modern bus stops across Srinagar.
As per the officials, these new bus stops will feature a Passenger Information System (PIS), providing real-time updates on bus movement and displaying route maps. Equipped with monitor displays, the stops will offer comprehensive information on bus timings and routes.
“Work on these advanced bus stops is expected to begin next month, with surveys currently underway,” an official stated.
