Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji
Panaji, Apr 3: In a move aimed at enhancing efficiency and embracing modern technology, the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) has launched conductorless e-bus operations on three major routes in Panaji under the Smart City initiative.
The new system, which employs pole mount validators for ticketing and fare collection, has been implemented on the Altinho (green), Taleigao (orange), and Cujira (indigo) routes. The validators are strategically placed at the entrance door of each bus, allowing passengers to complete their transactions without the need for conductors.
According to a KTC official, Panaji’s residents, as well as the city’s floating population, have adapted well to the conductorless system. The bus drivers are now responsible for managing payments via the pole mount validators, which support Smart City transit cards, banking cards, UPI, and cash payments.
“We received complaints from commuters who were inconvenienced by the digital-only payment method. To address this, we have reintroduced cash payments on these routes to enhance user convenience,” the official explained.
The transition to a conductorless system is also being gradually applied to the Panaji market to Dona Paula (red) route, which currently operates with a mixed model — three stops functioning without conductors and three with conductors. KTC aims to make the red route fully conductorless in the coming months.
Officials stated that both passengers and drivers have adjusted well to the new system, with drivers providing necessary guidance to those unfamiliar with the payment process.
“The entire operation in Panaji is prepared to transition to a fully conductorless system within the next three months,” the official added.
Meanwhile, conductors previously employed on the Smart City e-buses have been reassigned to other KTC e-bus routes across Goa.
Additionally, KTC is planning to enhance the Smart City bus stops with advanced facilities such as pre-booking of tickets, bus identification, real-time tracking, and route map visualization to further improve commuter experience.