Revolutionizing Public Transport: Tata Motors' Electric-bus initiative faces operational hurdles

Ticketless warned of consequences, Enforcement Wing challaned some with fine amounting to Rs 250

JAMMU: Partnering with Tata Motors for E-buses initiative, the Jammu n ad Kashmir administration signed a substantial MoU amounting to Rs 500 crores to run these buses over a 12-year period in Jammu.
The buses not only offer a greener alternative but also promise enhanced reliability, comfort, and affordability for commuters. Advanced safety features like panic buttons, location tracking systems, and CCTV cameras further ensure passenger security.
Innovations in ticketing processes through mobility cards and digital payment systems are also commendable, aiming to streamline the commuting experience. However, despite these advancements, certain challenges have surfaced post-launch, impacting the smooth operation of the buses.
Reports suggest that the buses are running at a loss, burdening the UT exchequer due to alleged corrupt practices. Control over the operations lies with Tata Motors, who subcontract the drivers' management to Bharat Vikas Group (BVG) and the conductors' hiring to Kissan Motors through e-tendering.
The e-buses significantly enhanced the reliability, comfort and affordability of public transport. The buses also have advanced safety features, such as panic buttons, location tracking systems and closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras.
To streamline the ticketing process, Mobility cards and digital payment systems are also introduced to replace paper tickets. However, after the launch, the buses’ mobility and plying on Jammu roads have struck with certain bottlenecks , on which even government control seems to be getting nullified .
As per the information available, the buses are running on losses hitting the UT exchequer which is quite evident due to some corrupt and malafide intentions being in practice . It is being reported that despite everything being digital and controlled, yet some lacunae are being reported at various points that are hitting adversely.
As per the launch of the buses , the total control was held by TATA Motors who managed the drivers of the buses subletting the contract to Bharat Vikas Group (BVG) and the contract for hiring the conductors was given to Kissan Motors who through e-tendering , selected the conductors for the purpose .
A technology driven app CHALO is also released for e-ticketing of the buses which , as per sources , is being underutilized which is hitting the exchequer . Though for the purpose , an ETM ( Electronic Ticketing Machine ) is handy with the conductors , but on many occasions , they are found under digitizing the ticket and charging the full amount.
“ An enforcement wing from Jammu Smart City has been pressed into action as a watchdog on such corrupt practices and the commuters are being made aware to get the ticket for their due journey . Many found ticketless are warned of the consequences and Enforcement Wing has also challaned some with a fine amounting to Rs 250- for non possession of the ticket,” said the sources .
Efforts to curb malpractices include the introduction of the CHALO app for e-ticketing and an enforcement wing from Jammu Smart City to monitor and penalize ticketless travelers. Despite these measures, issues persist, with some conductors reportedly not properly digitizing tickets and charging incorrect amounts.
Tata Motors' delivery of state-of-the-art Ultra EV air-conditioned electric buses underscores their commitment to sustainable mobility solutions. The initiative, spearheaded by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir's Housing and Urban Development Department, aims to provide residents with safe, comfortable, and emission-free commuting options.
While the initiative holds great promise for the region's transportation landscape, addressing operational challenges and ensuring transparency will be crucial for its long-term success.

Updated On 5/7/2024 12:23:58 AM