KTCL to Operate Panaji E-Buses Without Conductors
The Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited (KTCL) has announced that all intra-city electric buses under the Panaji Smart City initiative will soon operate without conductors.
The transition to a fully digital fare collection system is being implemented in phases and aligns with the original plan under the operational agreement with Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL).
Also Read: Vasco-Bogmalo Beach Bus Service Launched by Kadamba Transport Corporation
Phase-Wise Implementation
The rollout began last week with three key routes switching to a conductor-less system:
| Route | Color Code | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Altinho | Green | Conductor-less Active |
| Taleigao | Orange | Conductor-less Active |
| Cujira | Indigo | Conductor-less Active |
| Remaining 4 Routes | – | Transition in Progress |
KTCL Managing Director Rohan Kaskar noted that the shift aligns with an operational agreement signed with Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL), which originally mandated a fully digital system from the start.
“We initially retained conductors to help passengers get used to the service after its launch in July last year. Now that people are more familiar with it, we’ve implemented the conductor-less model on three routes and will soon cover all routes,” Kaskar said.
How the New System Works
To make the digital transition seamless, the following systems are in place:
- Smart Transit Cards: Tap-in and tap-out feature to calculate fares based on journey length.
- UPI Payments: Simple digital payment method for instant fare deduction.
- QR Code Scanning via ‘Tomok’ App: Enables contactless ticketing and live bus tracking.
Driver Role Enhanced: E-bus drivers are trained to assist passengers in using these digital ticketing options.
Ongoing Transition
The remaining routes—including the busy Panaji Market to Dona Paula corridor—still accept both digital payments and cash. KTCL officials confirmed that a gradual transition is underway for these segments as well.
Enhanced Commuter Experience
To support this upgrade, KTCL is also enhancing bus stops with:
- Real-time bus tracking
- Pre-booking options
- Digital route displays
Also Read: Kadamba Transport Launches Electric Buses Between Panaji and Goa University
Service Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | July 2023 |
| Daily Footfall | Over 5,000 passengers |
| Total E-buses in Fleet | Over 40 |
| Seating Capacity Options | 49, 26, and 14 |
| Key Coverage Areas | Miramar, Dona Paula, Goa University, GMC Bambolim, St Cruz |
| Fare Structure | ₹10 or ₹20 based on travel distance |
Despite initial resistance to cashless ticketing in November 2023, officials believe the step-by-step approach is helping commuters adapt smoothly to the new system.
