Exciting News: Meghalaya Govt Unveils Ambitious Plan to Launch 30 More STEMS Buses in Shillong!

The Meghalaya government plans to expand its State Transport for Efficient Mobility Society (STEMS) bus service for school-going children due to rising demand. An additional 30 buses are set to be rolled out this year. Swapnil Tembe, the Director of School Education & Literacy, reported that the decision follows a significant reduction in traffic congestion thanks to the initiative, which has removed approximately 900 private vehicles from Shillong’s roads. Each bus accommodates 30 students, thus reducing the number of private vehicles on the road.

With 60 buses in operation, this figure is expected to rise to around 1,800 fewer vehicles on Shillong’s thoroughfares. Beyond the logistical advantages, STEMS buses also offer added convenience and safety features. Students are escorted to their schools upon disembarking, and parents receive real-time updates via mobile notifications. This has led to requests to extend services to areas like Jowai and Tura, prompting the government to contemplate expanding the initiative beyond Shillong.

Despite the service’s success, challenges persist, notably narrow school routes, which hinder access to full-sized buses. The department is thus considering smaller vehicles like vans or minibusses. Additionally, the lack of adequate parking spaces complicates logistics, though the government is working on solutions. Tembe emphasized that student safety remains paramount, which has fueled increased demand for the buses both in Shillong and other regions of the state. He urged parents to prioritize safety and help ease traffic congestion by opting for the bus service.

In summary, the government’s proactive steps to improve school transportation through STEMS not only promise more efficient urban mobility but also assure parents of their children’s safety, while potentially extending benefits to other parts of Meghalaya.

Original Source: https://nenews.in/meghalaya/meghalaya-govt-to-introduce-30-more-stems-buses-in-shillong/20571/
Category : Meghalaya,Meghalaya government,State Transport for Efficient Mobility Society or STEMS
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Publish Date: 2025-02-21 17:09:00