VASCO
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho on Friday said Goa will get 250 new electric buses, while bus stands will be developed as bus ports in the State.
Godinho told reporters that he had a very fruitful meeting with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on a number of matters.
"We wanted more electric buses. We already got 50 electric buses and we will get another 100 buses by the month end. However, even this number will not be enough as we know that after 15 years, especially in Government sector, buses have to be scrapped,” said Godinho.
“We have to be well connected and I suggested that we need around 500 electric buses. Gadkari said they are launching a new scheme under which we will immediately get 250 new electric buses. But I have been told to meet him again in 15 days for a follow up, by which time the new scheme will be in place," said Godinho.
“The State government does not have money to develop bus stands and so, we will develop bus stands in Goa like modern bus ports with lounge facilities through central funds.”
The minister said works worth Rs 650 crore have already been tendered for a new flyover from the Grade Separator at Goa airport to the Verna junction with underpasses, etc.
“I have requested Gadkari to complete the project at the earliest. We are facing a small issue of a bottleneck at the Naval NSD area in Dabolim, which is a narrow strip of road and we have requested them to go inside by at least 7 meters from the road.”
“I have had a meeting with the Navy and they have been positive to agree and send the proposal to the Centre. I have requested Gadkari to speak with Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and he has agreed to do so. Rajnath Singh is coming to Goa and I will also meet him and discuss the matter with him. We can then have a nice flyover and broadening of roads will also take place," said Godinho.
