PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday flagged off new semi-luxury buses of the Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited (KTCL) at the KTC Bus Stand in Panaji, as part of efforts to modernise the corporation’s fleet and improve public transport connectivity across Goa.
The new buses are aimed at providing commuters with more comfortable, reliable and modern travel options. The event was attended by KTCL Chairman Ulhas Tuenkar and Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho.
As part of the next phase of KTCL’s transformation, six luxury sleeper coaches equipped with modern amenities are expected to be inducted by Dussehra 2026 to improve interstate travel. Another 24 semi-luxury buses will also be added to strengthen connectivity with neighbouring states.
Speaking at the event, Sawant said the government was working towards strengthening public transport through a partnership model with private bus operators rather than treating them as competitors. He also highlighted the Mhaji Bus Scheme, stating that the monthly salary of drivers under the scheme has been increased to Rs 20,000.
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho said the government was making efforts to bring more buses onto Goa’s roads and address the shortage in the state. He said KTCL services have also been improved through the introduction of electric buses.
Godinho appealed to Sawant, who also holds the Finance portfolio, to address the shortage of buses, expressing confidence that the issue would be resolved with the induction of more buses into the KTCL fleet.
