Jaipur Braces for Major Public Transport Crisis as 100 Buses Set to Retire
The city of Jaipur is on the brink of a significant public transport crisis, with officials warning of severe disruptions starting in April. The Jaipur City Transport Services Limited (JCTSL) is set to retire 100 of its buses by March 31, a move that could slash the operational fleet by half and force the closure of numerous routes across the city.
Fleet Reduction and Commuter Impact
Of the buses scheduled for retirement, 30 are mini buses and 70 are Smart City buses. Once these vehicles are withdrawn from service, only around 100 buses will remain operational for Jaipur's daily commuters. This drastic reduction is expected to have a profound impact on public mobility, echoing past disruptions.
Officials have highlighted that a similar retirement of 100 buses in 2023 led to the closure of 16 route pairs, affecting nearly 50,000 passengers. The current situation threatens to exacerbate these issues, potentially leaving thousands more stranded or facing longer wait times and overcrowded vehicles.
Delayed Electric Bus Induction
In response to the impending crisis, efforts are underway to induct 318 new electric buses through Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL), a joint venture of public sector undertakings under the Union power ministry. However, the rollout faces significant delays and challenges.
Only about 40 of these e-buses are expected to be available before the March-end deadline, far short of the number needed to offset the retirements. JCTSL officials reported that a prototype trial conducted by CESL in September was unsuccessful, and a second trial held on December 15 is still awaiting its report, adding to the uncertainty.
A Local Self Government department official confirmed that there is no clear timeline yet for the arrival of the first batch of buses, further complicating the situation.
Procurement Plans and Infrastructure Upgrades
JCTSL Managing Director Narayan Singh outlined the procurement strategy, stating that 150 buses will be procured in the first phase. "If the process proceeds smoothly, manufacturing of the first batch will take about two to two-and-a-half months. Jaipur is likely to receive 50 to 60 buses initially, and the remaining buses will be delivered within six months," he explained.
Singh added that the induction of e-buses is contingent on depot upgrades. Work has already begun at the Bagrana depot on Agra Road, and the upgradation of the Todi depot on Sikar Road is set to start soon. These infrastructure improvements are crucial for supporting the new fleet.
Allegations of Deliberate Delays
Amidst the crisis, drivers' association President Babulal Nangli has raised serious allegations of intentional delays in bringing new buses. "The tender was issued, but there is intentional delay in inducting new buses. Old, condemned buses are being given repeated extensions to benefit an earlier company, and drivers are being pressured to operate unfit vehicles," he claimed.
These accusations suggest potential mismanagement or vested interests that could be hindering the timely replacement of the aging fleet, adding another layer of complexity to Jaipur's transport woes.
As the March 31 deadline approaches, Jaipur's commuters face an uncertain future, with the city's public transport system at risk of significant degradation unless swift and effective measures are taken to address the bus shortage and expedite the e-bus induction process.
