Thirty Sustainable Transport and Efficient Mobility Society (STEM) school buses started services today starting from Umpling Football Ground to Pine Mount School.
STEM school buses were procured under an initiative designed to improve commuting experience, reduce traffic congestion, promote sustainable and safe transportation, and enhance overall connectivity for the citizens of the state.
There are a total of 12 boarding and de-boarding points along the route including Umpling Football Ground, Nongrah Presbyterian Church, Nongrah Mawshyieng, Nongrah, Lapalang Junction, Lumbatngen (Law U Sib), Demthring Bus Stop, Nongkhyriem, Nongthymmai, Jylli Shop, Fire Brigade, and Pine Mount Back Gate.
STEM Chief Executive Officer Isawanda Laloo said the bus services aim to revolutionize public transportation and provide schools students with a reliable, safe, efficient, and comfortable commuting option. “The government has invested substantial resources in this initiative to ensure the highest standards of service and safety for all passengers,” she added.
As safety is of paramount importance, the GPS-enabled buses allow live tracking and are fitted with 5 cameras each. The buses are manned by a well-trained crew of uniformed drivers and caretakers.
Informing that three rounds of extensive and successful test runs were conducted for the pilot route, in order to ensure technical efficiency of the available services and smooth coordination between all concerned, Laloo said STEMS, together with its supporting partner departments including Shillong Traffic Police, MTC, NIC, PWD (Roads) and other agencies are working closely together to ensure the best possible service to the school children of the city.
So far, STEMS has received a total of 455 registrations and queries from 250+ parents, she said, adding, that the bus services for the other selected routes and schools will be done in a phase-wise manner.
Laloo further said the service intends to also cater to officer-goers and other commuters at a later stage, in order to gradually reduce the reliance on private mode of transportation. By choosing buses, individuals can contribute to addressing the issue of congestion in the city and enjoy the numerous benefits of a well-connected city.
