SRINAGAR: Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) has firmly denied allegations of non-availability of Smart City bus services after 6 PM in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and Civil Line areas, calling the claims baseless and misleading. The allegations were made in a news report published on 9 January 2025.
In an official statement, SSCL clarified that its public transport services operate according to a well-defined schedule, extending beyond 6 PM to cater to commuters, including shopkeepers and businessmen in the area. The services run from 7 AM to 9 PM in winter and from 6 AM to 10 PM in summer, with select routes to hospitals and railway terminals operating until 10 PM year-round.
“Timely and reliable transportation remains our top priority, and we have consistently ensured adherence to the schedule across all routes,” SSCL stated, adding that bus services in Lal Chowk and Civil Lines operate from early morning until late evening.
SSCL currently operates 98 buses across 16 routes, including 11 intra-city and 5 inter-city routes. All routes originate from or pass through Lal Chowk, covering major areas like IG Road, Sanat Nagar, and Rawalpora. Real-time bus tracking is available through the Chalo App, and services are monitored through a real-time monitoring cell to ensure efficiency.
SSCL noted that temporary service disruptions may occur due to electricity shortages, road maintenance, or traffic diversion directives, and such issues are communicated to the public through the mobile app.
Following preliminary investigations, SSCL reported finding no evidence to support the claims of service gaps. The organisation reiterated its commitment to addressing any genuine concerns promptly.
“Our operational framework includes regular monitoring and swift resolution of disruptions. Any verified service gap brought to our attention will be addressed with urgency,” the statement added.
Srinagar Smart City Limited emphasised its commitment to providing efficient and dependable transport services to the city’s residents.
