Srinagar, July 16: The introduction of electric e-buses in Srinagar has revolutionized the city’s public transport system. In just nine months, these buses have served approximately 8 lakh commuters, significantly enhancing the travel experience.
According to officials from Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), the e-buses have provided a major relief to residents by offering smooth and reliable transportation. Operating from 6:00 AM to 1:15 AM, these buses cater to diverse travel needs, ensuring that commuters have access to transport beyond traditional hours.
Asif Ahmad, a local resident, shared his positive experience with Rising Kashmir, stating, “Earlier, we had to wait a long time to catch the mini buses. Now, we only need to be ready a few minutes before the bus arrives, as we can track its location and arrival time.”
Nahida Manzoor, a student from Batmaloo, compared the e-buses to metro services, highlighting their speed and efficiency. She emphasized the need for more such transport options to further improve the city’s overall transport network.
Despite the success of the e-buses, concerns remain about transport availability in certain areas, especially in the evenings. Officials have acknowledged this issue and assured that it will be addressed soon. Local residents have called for an increase in the number of smart city buses to ensure smoother travel throughout Srinagar.
The Srinagar Smart Bus initiative has received widespread praise for its comfort and reliability. SSCL remains committed to enhancing the city’s public transport infrastructure, providing a critical transport lifeline to the citizens of Srinagar.
Introduced in November 2023 as part of the Smart City initiative, a total of 100 e-buses, comprising 75 nine-meter buses and 25 twelve-meter buses, were rolled out to enhance public transportation and reduce pollution. These buses operate on 15 designated routes within the city.
The e-buses have not only eased the commute for thousands but have also set a new standard for public transportation in Srinagar.
