200 smart buses expected by year-end: MD
Srinagar, Jun 24: The fleet strength of the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has witnessed a sharp decline of over 59 per cent during the last 36 years, raising concerns about the availability and quality of public transport services across the Union Territory.
Official data shared by the JKRTC reveals that the corporation had a fleet of 966 buses in 1990. The number gradually declined to 700 in 2006 and further dropped to 580 by 2014-15. The fleet strength continued to shrink in subsequent years, reaching 505 buses in 2019-20 and 478 in 2020-21. At present, only 394 buses are operational, marking an overall decline of 59.2 per cent from 1990.
Officials attributed the reduction in fleet size primarily to the retirement of overaged vehicles and the situation in the 90s, as many buses were damaged then. They said that in 2025, the corporation auctioned 237 vehicles, including 145 buses, 85 trucks, five tempos and two cranes, all of which had completed more than 15 years of service.
The corporation has also identified 249 additional vehicles for auction during the current year. Officials acknowledged that delays in the disposal process had led to the accumulation of a large number of obsolete vehicles.
“As per government norms, no extension of service life or major maintenance is permitted for vehicles that have crossed 15 years. Such vehicles have to be phased out,” an official said.
The decline in fleet strength comes amid growing complaints from commuters regarding the condition of buses operating on various routes. Passengers have repeatedly alleged that many buses offer uncomfortable and bumpy rides and require urgent upgrading and maintenance.
Commuters have urged the authorities to improve the quality of public transport and ensure that buses remain roadworthy and passenger-friendly.
Responding to these concerns, JKRTC officials maintained that regular maintenance of operational buses is being carried out. They said that most buses currently in service are between five and ten years old and undergo periodic inspections.
Meanwhile, the corporation is looking to strengthen its fleet through fresh procurements. Managing Director JKRTC, A R War said that the government has approved the purchase of 200 smart buses for the Union Territory.
“We have placed orders for 200 smart buses – 100 for Jammu and 100 for Kashmir. We expect the buses to arrive by the end of this year. The proposal has already been cleared by the government,” War told Rising Kashmir.
Officials said the induction of the new buses is expected to enhance public transport services, improve commuter comfort, and help address the shortage created by the retirement of ageing vehicles.
