More people in the capital are turning to city buses than ever before. Over the past four years, daily ridership has increased, with up to 25,000 commuters now using the service every day. Officials attribute the increase to faster, more efficient, and reliable bus services.
Today, buses arrive every eight minutes during peak hours and every 16 minutes during lean hours. A few years ago, commuters had to wait around 15 minutes during peak hours and up to 30 minutes during lean hours.
Karma Tobgay, a commuter said, “If there are more buses in the morning, it will benefit everyone. There is a rush during office hours.”
The city bus director said the number of users is expected to rise further with the arrival of 35 new electric buses this July.
With the arrival of the additional fleet, the city bus office plans to deploy buses every five minute.
He added that the use of the Gakyid Ride App has helped commuters track the live location of buses and plan their journeys more conveniently. Currently, more than 1,000 people use the app every day.
The director said increased use of city buses can significantly reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads, helping address traffic congestion and pollution.
Director of City Bus Service Pasang Tshering said, “One bus can carry 50 passengers, therefore, it can replace 49 private vehicles on the road. It is very convenient and it is also good for the country’s economy.”
However, despite the improvements, the service continues to face infrastructure-related challenges.
According to the director, inadequate facilities, including insufficient bus terminals, remain a major concern.
“No matter how many buses we have, if we do not have good infrastructure and facilities such as bus stop, bus routes, and terminals, it is challenging. As of now we have identified three areas to make bus terminal.”
Highlighting the recent increase in fuel prices, he said the city bus becomes one of the most efficient modes of transport for commuters.
With more buses and improved infrastructure, the city bus service hopes to make public transport more convenient and accessible.
Sangay Chozom
