In 13 months, smart city buses generate revenue of Rs 11.5 cr

Srinagar, Dec 20: The introduction of eco-friendly smart city buses in Srinagar has transformed the city’s transportation landscape, offering a modern, efficient, and sustainable travel option to residents.
Since their launch in November 2023, these buses have not only improved the city’s public transport system but have also generated an impressive revenue of ₹11.50 crore.
The bus service, which started operations in the first week of November 2023, now consists of 100 electric buses running across 16 routes. Of these, 75 are nine-meter buses, while 25 are twelve-meter variants. These buses have quickly become a major mode of transport in the city, catering to the growing demand for reliable public transportation. In just 2024 alone, the fleet has carried over 61 lakh passengers, cementing its role as a vital transportation source for Srinagar’s residents.
The system has seen significant growth in its first year, with September witnessing the highest passenger count of over 7.2 lakh. August followed closely with more than 6.8 lakh passengers, while the service started modestly in November 2023 with 1.3 lakh passengers, rising to over 3.25 lakh by December. The public has widely embraced the service, often referring to it as the “mini metro” of Kashmir, highlighting the convenience and efficiency it offers.
Travellers have praised the service for its punctuality and user-friendliness. Muneer Ahmad, a student at Kashmir University, shared his experience, saying, “Earlier, I had no choice but to wait for long hours for a bus to the university. Now, I can track the bus on an app and leave my home just in time. The best part is that these buses don’t wait for passengers like traditional buses, making it so much more reliable.”
The buses are efficient and environmentally friendly, with zero emissions. They are equipped with advanced amenities such as air conditioning, air curtains for consistent interior temperature, and five strategically placed cameras to ensure passenger safety. In addition, every bus is fitted with a panic button linked to a command-and-control centre, providing immediate emergency assistance.
To further enhance passengers’ convenience, the city plans to install 360 modern bus stops featuring Passenger Information Systems (PIS) that will provide real-time updates, route maps, and bus timings. These high-tech bus stops will improve accessibility and ensure a seamless travel experience for commuters.