On December 8, I happened to board a private bus (bearing registration No GA01-W-4555) at old bus stand in Ponda proceeding towards Sanvordem at 6.15pm. As the bus reached near Top Cola-Borim, I pointed out to the bus conductor regarding a man occupying a seat marked for ladies. An elderly lady was noticed standing just near the particular seat. However, it was rather unfortunate that the bus conductor neglected this matter and just turned down my request. Hence he failed to advise the person to offer that seat to the woman which was rightfully reserved for her. This is nothing but an irresponsible and unwarranted attitude on the part of the conductor. Through this letter, I hereby inform the higher officials at the Regional Transport Offices in the state to take a serious view of the above matter and issue a fresh circular to all private bus operators plying their buses on different routes in the state. It is very much necessary that reserved seats meant for ladies, senior citizens and disabled persons are easily and compulsorily available for this class of people only. Bus conductors who refuse to follow this norm should be taken to task. Of course, they need to be penalised accordingly. Let us hope that this competent authority would initiate immediate favourable steps in this direction before the existing situation in buses turns from bad to worse. Commuters need to be treated respectfully at all costs.
