Guwahati’s fleet of 256 electric green buses, launched by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) in early 2024, aimed to mitigate pollution, offer comfortable rides, and ensure dependable service. Nevertheless, around one lakh commuters depend on these buses each day, and numerous individuals find themselves stranded during their journeys without refunds or accountability. Certain staff members exhibit unprofessional behavior towards commuters, resulting in the cancellation of bus services midway on busy routes such as Lachit Nagar to Beltola, Paltan Bazar to Khanapara, and Basistha Mandir to Dharapur.
The ASTC website provides detailed timetables and comprehensive route information; however, arbitrary stops continue to occur due to battery depletion, mechanical and staffing issues, and the absence of route checks. The fleet of 256 green buses, comprising 200 operated by Guwahati Smart City Limited (GSCL) and 56 by ASTC, are fully charged overnight at the Rupnagar charging station and are capable of operating from 6 am to 9 pm, covering distances of up to 150 km per charge.
Some drivers experience pressure to achieve daily revenue goals, which may lead to abbreviated routes. The system requires a thorough route check, as the buses currently resemble unreliable shared taxis that operate based on convenience rather than established route maps. Guwahati deserves superior service, and the ethical standards of the drivers must align with the commitments made in writing. While Guwahati’s green buses utilize clean energy, the overall system remains far from pristine.
