Panaji, the capital city of Goa, is massive transformation in its public transportation system with the introduction of a pioneering initiative by Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd. (IPSCDL) and Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd. (KTCL).
This collaborative effort has led to the inception of a streamlined and paperless travel experience for passengers on its EV bus service through the implementation of the all-new Smart Transit Card and mobile app “Tummoc”.
The project, which involves the deployment of 48 electric buses on 7 major routes in and around Panaji, has set the stage for an innovative and eco-friendly commuting experience.
The integration of Smart Transit IT interventions not only aims to enhance cost-efficiency but also promotes green practices and enables conductor-less operations. With M/s Iteration Technologies Private Limited as the IT partner, the endeavour has showcased commendable success since its launch.
The EV bus services have garnered a positive reception, evidenced by the encouraging performance metrics. From July 1st – 31st, 2024, approximately 68,603 passengers utilized the new intra-city bus service, averaging 2213 riders per day.
Moreover, the buses covered a total of 43,455 km during this period, averaging 1401 km per day. These figures highlight the growing acceptance and utilization of eco-friendly transportation options in the city.
To further elevate the experience for commuters and drive increased ridership, IPSCDL and KTCL are gearing up to introduce the Smart Transit Card and the “Tummoc” mobile app.
This pioneering initiative is designed to revolutionize urban commuting by laying emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and convenience.
The Smart Transit Card, a key component of this initiative, will digitize all paper passes, offering seamless commuting through NFC-enabled validators inside the EV buses.
However, amidst these visionary strides, some challenges need to be addressed to achieve seamless urban commuting.
The buses currently navigate congested areas without dedicated bus stops, diminishing the overall efficiency of the service.
Furthermore, the absence of real-time bus timings and route maps encumbers the commuting experience. These issues, if resolved, can significantly amplify the appeal and effectiveness of the EV bus service.
In light of these developments, it is crucial to enhance public awareness and participation in this initiative.
Educating the public about the benefits of utilizing public transport, in terms of cost efficiency and environmental impact, will be pivotal in driving its widespread adoption.
By addressing these challenges and engendering public support, Panaji can witness a notable reduction in the number of vehicles on its roads, alleviating congestion and environmental strain.
The initiatives undertaken by IPSCDL and KTCL herald a transformative era in urban commuting, setting the stage for an eco-friendly and efficient transportation system in Panaji. By leveraging technology and sustainability, this collaborative effort stands poised to revolutionize the city’s public transportation landscape, fostering a greener and more commuter-friendly environment for all.