KTC cracks down on drunk drivers and fare evasion

Panaji: Chairperson of Kadamba Transport Corporation Ltd (KTC), Ulhas Tuenkar, on Wednesday issued a strong statement in the wake of Monday’s electric bus accident at the Panaji bus stand, warning that drivers found under the influence of alcohol will face immediate suspension.The accident involved a 12-m-long electric bus that crashed into a municipal shed and an illegally parked tempo at the alighting bay of the city’s bus terminus. While Tuenkar did not confirm whether the bus driver was intoxicated, he stressed the corporation’s zero-tolerance stance on such issues.“When 50 people sit in a bus, their lives are the responsibility of the KTC. We have held discussions with the chief minister to ensure that the best services are provided,” he said.Alongside strict monitoring of driver conduct, Tuenkar said the corporation is cracking down on fare evasion by passengers and non-reporting of passengers by staff. “KTC expects a boost in revenue over the next six months,” he said.To strengthen KTC’s fleet, a tender has been floated for 50 new e-buses, and another 30 e-buses are expected to be delivered from a previous order, bringing the total to 80 new buses in the near future.“In 2027, we plan to scrap 200 ageing buses. Provisions are being made to replace these with new ones in a step-by-step fashion,” he added.Tuenkar also highlighted efforts to improve last-mile connectivity by integrating services with private operators under the Mhaji Bus scheme, ensuring better route coverage across the state.