The Jammu and Kashmir Government is set to significantly strengthen its public transportation network by adding 200 new smart electric buses to its existing fleet, aiming to improve connectivity in rural areas and tourist destinations while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly transport across the Union Territory.
Officials said the procurement process for the new fleet is in its advanced stages, with 100 electric buses each earmarked for Srinagar and Jammu. The buses are expected to be inducted into service over the coming months, nearly doubling the current fleet and expanding the reach of public transport.
The move comes amid a sharp increase in the popularity of electric buses, driven by their modern amenities, environmental benefits, and the government’s free bus travel scheme for women, which has led to a steady rise in daily ridership.
Improved Rural and Tourist Connectivity
With the induction of the new buses, the government plans to extend services beyond city limits to connect more rural regions and major tourist destinations, making public transport more accessible for residents and visitors alike.
Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, said the expansion would further strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s commitment to developing an efficient and environmentally sustainable transport system.
“The procurement process is in advanced stages. It is going to strengthen an efficient and eco-friendly public transport system in Jammu and Kashmir,” Wani said.
He also confirmed that the free bus service for women on smart buses and other government-operated bus services will continue, reaffirming the government’s commitment to women’s welfare and affordable public transportation.
Smart Features Enhance Passenger Experience
The electric buses introduced in Srinagar and Jammu in 2023 have transformed urban public transport by offering commuters a comfortable, safe, and technology-driven travel experience.
The buses are equipped with air-conditioning, GPS tracking, CCTV surveillance, smart ticketing systems, digital displays, and modern safety features, making them a preferred mode of transport for thousands of passengers.
Officials said the growing demand for the service has encouraged the government to expand the fleet and improve connectivity across the Union Territory.
Ministry Approves Additional Fleet
As part of the Srinagar Smart City Limited initiative, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has approved 100 electric buses for Srinagar, while another 100 buses have been sanctioned for Jammu.
Simultaneously, the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has initiated the procurement of another fleet of 200 smart buses, which will eventually replace conventional diesel-powered buses as part of the government’s long-term plan to modernise public transportation and reduce carbon emissions.
Transport Department Secretary Avny Lavasa said the proposal to procure additional electric buses through the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (J&K SRTC) is separate from the fleet approved by the Ministry, indicating a significant expansion of the public transport network.
Welfare Over Revenue
Responding to concerns regarding revenue losses arising from the free bus service for women, Lavasa said the initiative delivers substantial social benefits that outweigh financial considerations.
“It may be impacting revenues, but free bus service to women has intangible social benefits. It’s a welfare scheme of the government and cannot be measured by revenue losses,” she said.
Officials believe the scheme has not only increased women’s mobility but has also encouraged greater use of public transport, reduced dependence on private vehicles, and contributed to environmental sustainability.
Towards Sustainable Urban Mobility
The expansion of Jammu and Kashmir’s electric bus fleet forms part of the administration’s broader vision to promote clean mobility, reduce vehicular emissions, improve urban and rural connectivity, and provide affordable public transport.
With 200 additional smart e-buses set to hit the roads in the coming months, the government aims to build a modern, reliable, and environmentally friendly transportation system that caters to the growing needs of commuters while supporting tourism and regional development across Jammu and Kashmir.
