Despite shortfalls pointed out by CAG, KTC did good: Carlos

the goan I network
VASCO

"KTC can't be compared to other transport corporations in India as we are operating our buses on routes which have no takers. Despite this, KTC has made considerably good business with cash of Rs 3.43 crore in hand," said Almeida, while addressing a press conference in Vasco on Saturday.
However, Almeida, assured to take corrective measures based on the observations by the CAG.
"There was no case of misappropriation anywhere in the CAG report. However, the point on expenditure mentioned by CAG is unavoidable as KTC has social obligations," he said.
"The KTC is operating more from villages and transporting 80,000 passengers each day and still it is only doing 20% of business in Goa, while 80% is left to private bus owners. The KTC actually made a business of Rs 7.54 cr in the last financial year, of which Rs 4 cr was paid as loans," said Almeida.
Claiming that KTC was in a bad state in 2012 when he had taken over, Almeida said: "We suffered financial problems, shortage of buses and others issues. So we decided to chalk out a plan of action to get KTC out of the red."
"Interest on our loans were mounting with old buses breaking down and no proper management. However, in the last six years, a lot of issues have been settled and we have done great progress."
"The expense per kilometre in Maharashtra is about Rs 24.45, while that of KTCL is around Rs 28. That is because, we have less fleet and cover around only 200 kms per day. We have never cancelled long trips and percentage of bus breakdowns is about 0.5 % and well within the norms," said Almeida.
Stating that the KTC would introduce a computerised depot management system, Almeida added that state-of-the-art KTC bus terminuses would be set up across different cities of Goa which will generate revenue.