The Thane Municipal Transport (TMT) has chalked out ambitious plans to press the accelerator on its sustainable initiatives in the financial year 2025-26. Along with its green initiatives, the transport agency also plans to give further impetus to cashless travel for commuters.

“Enhanced efficiency of transport services while prioritising sustainability,” is the year’s primary objective, according to Saurabh Rao, municipal commissioner.

“TMT intends to give further push to clean, green, and easy cashless travel for all,” Bhalchandra Benere, TMT transport manager, said.

The launch of the Mazi TCT mobile app, introduced in October 2024, is a significant milestone of the initiative, he said. The app provides real-time information about TMT buses and facilitates online ticket booking.

“We are also developing a smart mobility platform to integrate TMT services with Indian Railways and Metro, allowing for unified ticket purchasing,” Benere added.

To promote the Mazi App and ensure widespread awareness among passengers, TMT plans to install QR codes at bus stops and within TMT buses. This will enable users to download the app effortlessly with a simple scan, enhancing accessibility to TMT services.

In a bid to increase ridership and combat illegal transport operations, TMT plans to partner the Regional Transport Office and the Thane City Traffic Control Branch. “We aim to encourage more commuters to choose TMT buses over illegal alternatives,” Rao said, underscoring the importance of providing reliable public transport options.

A key sustainability initiative in the budget includes retrofitting 130 diesel buses to operate on CNG, with support from Mahanagar Gas Ltd. This move is expected to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of TMT operations.

The proposed budget totals Rs 571.33 crore, with Rs 440.81 crore allocated for revenue and capital expenses, and Rs 130.51 crore designated to address operational deficits. For the current financial year, TMT has secured Rs 180 crore in revenue grants and is seeking an additional Rs 188.97 crore to cover remaining expenses.

In addition to enhancing service efficiency, TMT plans to install LED advertising boards inside buses, which will serve as a vital revenue source for the municipal corporation.