The Goa government on Saturday suggested greater use of public transport by commuters, which will reduce traffic congestion and also help bring down the high number of accidents in the state.
The reduction of two-wheelers and four-wheelers will also help reduce air pollution. However, for commuters to switch over to travelling by buses instead of their private vehicles, there needs to be a vast improvement in the service provided by the public transport system.
Just introducing e-buses along various routes will not attract the travelling public. There needs to be bus service available even to the remotest village in the State.
The buses owned by the KTCL should be well maintained. Recently a Kadamba bus fell into a ditch at Chimbel junction. It is learnt that KTCL could soon face a massive shortage of buses since the Corporation will be forced to scrap nearly 100 buses following the 15-year rule for scrapping old vehicles.
Buses should adhere to fixed timings while leaving the bus depot. The buses should not be overcrowded. There should not be unauthorized stops on the way.
Seats in the buses should be reserved for ladies and senior citizens. Wherever necessary ‘Ladies Only’ buses should be introduced. Only improved service will attract commuters towards public transport.
