Srinagar: Chief Executive Officer of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) Basharat Qayoom on Wednesday reviewed the operation of electric bus services in Srinagar and directed officials and service providers to improve fleet availability, maintenance, punctuality and passenger convenience.
During an inspection of the e-bus depot at Pantha Chowk, Qayoom assessed fleet deployment and operational performance, stressing the need for closer monitoring of schedules, route-wise deployment and service frequency to minimise inconvenience to commuters.
He directed SSCL officials to monitor daily operations, assess the performance of individual routes and ensure that operational issues were resolved promptly in coordination with service providers.
Emphasising the responsibility of the operating agency, the CEO called for regular preventive maintenance, timely repairs and efficient charging management to maximise the availability of roadworthy buses.
Representatives of Tata were directed to improve coordination between depot and field teams and address technical and maintenance-related issues promptly in accordance with contractual obligations.
The review also covered passenger-facing digital services provided by Chalo Mobility, including real-time bus tracking, digital ticketing and passenger information. Qayoom stressed the need for reliable tracking services, accurate updates and timely communication of route changes and disruptions to help commuters plan their journeys.
He called for closer coordination among SSCL officials, Tata and Chalo Mobility, along with regular reviews of operational performance, passenger complaints and service gaps. Issues affecting commuters, he said, should be identified and resolved within stipulated timelines.
At the depot, Qayoom also reviewed facilities supporting fleet operations and maintenance, emphasising operational preparedness, compliance with prescribed standards and efficient use of available infrastructure.
The CEO was accompanied by the Additional CEO of SSCL, the General Manager for Public Transport Operations, the Manager for E-Bus Operations and Enforcement, the Statistical Officer, and representatives of Tata and Chalo Mobility.