Pulwama residents seek restoration of smart city bus service on Degree College Pulwama route
Pulwama: Residents of several areas in Pulwama have appealed to the authorities to immediately restore the Smart City bus service operating on the New Colony–Government Degree College Pulwama route, saying the suspension of the service has created significant difficulties for students, senior citizens, women and other daily commuters.
Locals said the bus service had emerged as a reliable and affordable mode of transportation for hundreds of passengers who depend on public transport to reach educational institutions, markets, hospitals and government offices. However, with the service remaining suspended, many families are now struggling to manage their daily travel needs.
Students of Government Degree College Pulwama said the bus service had eased their commute and reduced transportation expenses. They noted that many students come from modest economic backgrounds and now have to rely on costly private transport to attend classes.
“The Smart City bus was a major relief for students. It was punctual, economical and safe. Since its suspension, many students are facing difficulties in reaching college on time,” said a student from New Colony.
Residents stated that elderly people and women were among the biggest beneficiaries of the service. According to them, the buses provided a comfortable and secure means of travel, particularly for those who found it difficult to travel in overcrowded vehicles.
“Senior citizens often have medical appointments and other essential work in town. The bus service was extremely convenient for them. Now they are forced to wait for private vehicles, which are not always available,” said a local resident.
Another resident said the service had significantly improved connectivity between residential areas and key public institutions. “The route connected people directly to the college and other important locations. Its suspension has affected students, employees and ordinary commuters alike,” he said.
Women commuters also voiced concern over the discontinuation of the service, stating that the buses offered a safer travel option compared to other available modes of transport.
“The Smart City buses were comfortable and secure, especially for women travelling alone. We hope the authorities will understand the public inconvenience and restore the service without further delay,” said a woman commuter.
Locals maintained that the growing population in the area and increasing demand for public transportation make the restoration of the bus service all the more necessary. They stressed that public transport plays a crucial role in reducing travel costs and easing traffic congestion.
The residents collectively urged the district administration and concerned transport authorities to take immediate steps for the resumption of the Smart City bus service on the New Colony–Government Degree College Pulwama route, stating that its restoration would provide much-needed relief to hundreds of commuters who depend on it every day.
