Electric Bus Revolution : Panaji Swaps Noise for Silence
Quiet transformation takes place in Panaji through the use of electronic buses during daily commuting
In the heart of Goa, Panaji is shaking up its daily commute, with the quiet buzz of e-buses taking over the city's streets. This silent revolution in public transportation is part of the Smart City Mission, winning over a growing number of residents eager for a cleaner, more comfortable journey.
tout of 48 noise-free, plush electric buses crisscross Panaji under the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited project. These eco-friendly vehicles ferry thousands of commuters daily, thanks to the Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited [1][2]. The fleet includes 12-metre, 9-metre, and 7-metre buses designed to cater to Panaji's transportation needs.
According to Public Engagement Officer, Jove Costa, residents are gradually abandoning their private vehicles in favor of these silent rides. The smooth operation of these buses has resulted in quite a transformative change, redefining the city's public transport landscape.
By July 2025, more than 1.7 million commuters have climbed on board, collectively logging 8.8 lakh kilometers on these electric routes [1][3]. And it's not just the journey that's transformed—it's the payment process too. The rollout of digital modes of payment, such as UPI, debit/credit cards, and smart transit cards, have played a crucial role in boosting ridership. Over 33% of fares have moved towards digital transactions [3]. Impressively, close to 19,500 smart transit cards have been issued for commuters to enjoy the cashless convenience.
The data suggests that e-bus usage is on the rise, signaling an acceptance of this smart and eco-friendly mode of transport by the city's residents. Not only does it offer a smooth, budget-friendly ride, but it also helps decrease pollution levels and fuel consumption [3]. Moreover, these buses have ramps to ensure accessible travel for the physically challenged [3].
Laxmi Desai, a frequent commuter, lauds the e-buses for their comfort and the convenient UPI payment option. "No more stress, and it's perfect for those who don't carry cash," she says. Ashok Shetty, a Panaji businessman, applauds the initiative, appreciating the reduction in traffic congestion and pollution. "I encourage everyone to make the switch to e-buses," he adds.
As more residents swap their private cars and two-wheelers for the air-conditioned e-buses, Panaji's roads are starting to breathe again. The e-buses have helped decrease emissions, save fuel, and provide easier access for the disabled—all while easing the daily commute [3].
Sources:[1] Times Now News, "Electric buses hit the road in Panaji," March 20, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://timesnownews.com/india/article/electric-buses-hit-the-road-in-panaji/763150[2] Financial Express, "Panaji gets its first set of electric buses," March 20, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.financialexpress.com/auto/2-wheelers/panaji-gets-its-first-set-of-electric-buses/3121414/[3] The Hindu, "Panaji’s electric buses ferrying over 1.6 lakh passengers daily," April 1, 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/panajis-electric-buses-ferrying-over-16-lakh-passengers-daily/article65800619.ece
- Smart City Mission
- Panaji
- Sustainable Transportation
- Electric Buses
- UPI Payment
- Digital Transactions
- Reduced Traffic Congestion
- Reduced Emissions
- Eco-friendly Transport
- The government's Smart City Mission is transforming Panaji's transportation sector, with the introduction of noise-free electric buses as part of the project.
- The Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited has been instrumental in furnishing Panaji's streets with 48 eco-friendly electric buses, catering to a variety of transportation needs.
- In alignment with this transition towards sustainable transportation, digital modes of payment such as UPI, debit/credit cards, and smart transit cards are being embraced, boosting ridership and promoting cashless convenience.
- electric buses in Panaji are not only easing the daily commute but also helping reduce traffic congestion, emissions, and fuel consumption, contributing to a cleaner environment.
- With electric buses offering comfortable, budget-friendly, and eco-friendly rides, and convenient digital payment options, it's no surprise that Panaji residents are increasingly ditching their private cars and two-wheelers in favor of these vehicles, revitalizing the city's public transit system.
