Srinagar, J&K, June 15, 2025 – Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) has announced the introduction of an E-card system, dubbed the NCMP card, for women passengers availing the free travel facility on electric buses in Srinagar. Launched on June 14, 2025, this initiative aims to streamline access to the popular free bus service, curb overcrowding, and ensure that only registered beneficiaries utilize the scheme. The move, part of the Omar Abdullah-led National Conference government’s women empowerment agenda, enhances the efficiency of the eco-friendly public transport system in the Kashmir Valley.
Program Overview
The NCMP E-card system is designed to regulate the free travel scheme for women, which was rolled out on April 1, 2025, under a centrally funded initiative. The free bus service, available on Srinagar’s smart electric buses and State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses, has seen overwhelming demand, prompting the need for a structured access mechanism. The E-card ensures seamless identification of eligible passengers, reducing misuse and improving service delivery.
| Program Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Initiative Name | NCMP E-Card System |
| Launch Date | June 14, 2025 |
| Authority | Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) |
| Target Group | Women passengers in Srinagar |
| Objective | Streamline free travel, curb overcrowding, ensure eligibility |
| Applicable Buses | Smart City electric buses, SRTC buses |
Implementation and Features
The NCMP card will be issued to registered women passengers, allowing them to board electric buses without hassle. The system addresses overcrowding issues reported since the free travel scheme’s launch, ensuring smoother operations and prioritizing genuine beneficiaries. Registration details, including eligibility criteria and application processes, are available through SSCL’s official channels. The initiative also aligns with Srinagar’s broader push for sustainable urban mobility, with the electric bus fleet expanding to meet growing demand.
| Implementation Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Card Type | NCMP E-Card (digital/smart card) |
| Registration | Via SSCL online portal or designated centers |
| Purpose | Verify eligibility, reduce overcrowding |
| Technology | Smart card system for seamless boarding |
| Expansion Plans | Potential rollout to Kupwara, Bandipora |
Impact and Community Response
The free bus service has significantly boosted the popularity of Srinagar’s electric buses, empowering women by providing accessible transport for education, work, and daily needs. However, some have called for increased bus frequency to complement the new system.
| Community Impact | Details |
|---|---|
| Beneficiaries | Women across Srinagar |
| Public Response | Positive, with calls for more buses |
| Social Media Buzz | Highlighted by @GulistanNewsTV, @JK247News |
| Empowerment Goal | Enhanced mobility for education, work, leisure |
Context and Future Prospects
The E-card system comes as Srinagar’s electric bus service, launched in November 2023, continues to transform urban mobility in the Himalayan region. With 100 buses currently operational and plans to add 100 more under a centrally sponsored scheme, SSCL aims to extend services to districts like Kupwara and Bandipora. The initiative supports the government’s vision of sustainable, inclusive transport while reinforcing women’s empowerment in Jammu and Kashmir. The E-card system may serve as a model for other cities implementing similar free travel schemes, such as Delhi’s lifetime smart card program for women.
