Will form new firm to run BRTS: Minister

HUBBALLI: The operation and maintenance of Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), which started on a trial basis between Hubballi and Dharwad, will be brought under a separate company instead of continuing it under North West Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), said transport minister D C Thammanna.
He said on Saturday that since BRTS was a unique initiative, the state government was mulling to set up separate administration for its management. “With the formation of a new company, the state can tap the union government’s grants for running the system more effectively and adding more commuter friendly services. If it works under the NWKRTC, which is already under loss, it will have to rely upon the state government,” he said.

“We are considering extending BRTS service up to Belur industrial area and High Court once the service stabilizes in the current route. BRTS will be formally launched next month,” he said.

Stating that there was no rift between the Union and state governments over inviting guests for the launch, the minister said they have sought the time of the President and of the chief minister. “The government has plans to add 300 new buses to NWKRTC’s fleet. The aging buses will be scrapped and stress would be given on comfort of passengers. To enhance the efficiency of the service, a bus tracking system will be adopted shortly,” he added.

The minister admitted that all the public transport corporations were working under loss to the tune of Rs 650 core, but said the government was committed to provide housing to its 1.15 lakh drivers, conductors, mechanics and other lower level staff and has allocated Rs 100 crore for this purpose, he said.

Until now, 55 Chigari BRTS buses were operating from different points at Hubballi to Dharwad old and new bus terminus. On Saturday, Tammanna flagged off 15 more buses into service. Hubballi-Dharwad BRTS Company managing director Rajendra Cholan said that by next month 100 articulate buses would be pressed into action.