City buses fail to meet growing commuter demand

Jaipur: Even as the state govt pushes fuel conservation amid global uncertainties and urges citizens to use public transport, a reality check Friday revealed that the Pink City lacks an adequate public transportation system.

The number of buses operating in the city has declined sharply over the years, falling far short of public demand. Jaipur City Transport Services Limited (JCTSL) currently operates around 100 buses, down from nearly 400 three years ago.

“I had to let two buses go today because they were so overcrowded that I could not even get inside,” said Anita Sharma, a resident of Jhotwara waiting at a bus stop on Tonk Road.

Commuters said buses are routinely packed beyond capacity, leaving little space for passengers boarding along the route. “Buses arrive already overcrowded and I often have to travel while almost hanging from the door,” said Pujan Das, a daily wage worker commuting from Kukas to Lalkothi.

Many passengers alleged that buses frequently skip designated stops due to overcrowding. “I signalled the bus to stop, but the driver just drove past,” said Nikita, a student travelling daily between Lalkothi and Rawan Gate in Jhotwara.

Passengers waiting at Tonk Phatak, Lalkothi and Narayan Singh Circle said they are often forced to rely on autorickshaws because of irregular bus frequency and poor service conditions.

“Buses sometimes break down in the middle of the road, forcing commuters to look for alternative transport,” said Babita Kanwar at Narayan Singh Circle.

JCTSL managing director Narayan Singh said the corporation is aware of the shortage and is working on expanding the fleet with electric buses. “We plan to add 100 e-buses, of which 30 have already arrived. Keeping the city’s growing population in mind, we are trying to put at least 50 buses on the road by June,” he said.