Jaipur City Buses Run Out of Diesel Mid-Route, Passengers Stranded
A Jaipur City Transport Services Ltd (JCTSL) low-floor bus operating between Bassi and Chomu Puliya on Route No. 14 ran out of diesel near Ghat Gate on Friday. Passengers were transferred to another bus arriving from behind, but that bus also ran out of diesel by the time it reached Ajmeri Gate. With no additional bus available, frustrated passengers argued with the conductor, and many were left stranded on the roadside.
Commuters reported that such incidents have become increasingly common, particularly affecting office-goers, women, and elderly passengers, who often have to arrange alternative transport at extra cost.
According to JCTSL employees union representatives, the issue stems from alleged diesel theft from parked buses during night hours. Union president Babulal Nyangli alleged that some drivers siphon diesel from buses parked at the last stoppage late at night. “Several videos of diesel theft have gone viral. Buses frequently run out of fuel midway, but the management, including operations officials and depot authorities, took no action,” he said.
Nyangli claimed that nearly 10 to 15 buses fail to complete their routes every day because of diesel shortages. He further alleged that union members on several occasions caught contractual drivers stealing diesel and even recorded videos as proof, which were shown to senior officials. “Despite this, no action has been taken so far,” he said.
The recurring incidents have raised serious questions over the functioning and monitoring of Jaipur’s city bus service. While the city has already received 16 new e-buses, there is still no clarity on when they will begin operations.
