Traffic in Thimphu has been worsening over time. But residents can now take refuge in the city bus service which has overhauled its services. 27 additional buses with new features have been added to the service, and the bus routes have also been extended. The bus service also launched a digital ticketing system and a mobile application today.
The new buses were procured at a cost of Nu 3.4 M each. Although they look similar to the previous ones, the new buses have additional features such as air conditioners and inbuilt voice announcement facilities.
According to Sangay Dorji, the Officiating Director of the City Bus Service, the enhanced services are also expected to address the traffic congestion in the city. “We cannot guarantee it but when our service becomes efficient, we are hopeful people will keep their cars at home and use the city bus service which will help ease traffic,” he said.
The office has also extended its bus routes and constructed additional bus stops. The City Bus Service is also planning to extend their service beyond 8 PM.
The new buses are equipped with Smart Card Systems which will digitize the payment of fares. The card system will also be installed in 18 of the old buses.
“The Smart Card System is like an ATM but it is much easier to use,” said the Officiating Director. “There will be two machines at the door, and a person will just have to place the card on the machine and it will deduct the fare.”
The City Bus Service also launched a Mobile App called the ‘Gakyid Ride’. It will give information on the bus fares, bus routes including their distance and arrival timing for the commuter’s convenience.
Pema Seldon Tshering
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
