PANAJI
With a KTC bus running out of diesel midway and another KTC bus losing two rear wheels midway, the new KTC Chairperson Ulhas Tuenkar has admitted the need for a complete overhaul and full service of the corporation.“The system at the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) needs urgent repairs and I will begin this task shortly. The whole KTCL system is loose and we have to make it proper. The mechanic section has to be put in order and drivers have to be trained,” said Tuenkar, while speaking to reporters.
“Where is the diesel going? Why are buses running out of fuel when having our own fuel pumps. If private buses can operate properly and efficiently, why can’t KTC offer similar service,” were some of the questions raised by Tuenkar.
Tuenkar said he would convene a meeting with the managing director and General Manager of the KTC to identify and resolve the many issues affecting the KTC.
Commenting on the KTC bus which ran out of fuel midway, Tuenkar said both the driver who had handed over the bus without filling diesel and the driver who took over the bus without ensuring sufficient diesel, have been suspended in this connection.
Tuenkar said he would follow up with the government about the procurement of 500 new electric buses, in a bid to add more buses to the KTC fleet.
As per a central government’s direction, only electric buses can be purchased.
"Since the last seven years, no new buses have been purchased except for electric buses which were obtained through a central government fund. Now, around 100 electric buses will be added to the KTC fleet and a proposal for 500 more electric buses is pending. We have to follow it up with the department,” said Tuenkar.
