Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, May 7: As there is a provision to allow public transport in green zones, the deputy commissioner (DC) of the district held a meeting with the officials of Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private bus owners here on Wednesday, May 6.

The deputy commissioner asked the concerned to select routes on which KSRTC buses may start to operate, conduct a survey and file a report. Discussions were held on the issue of running buses to Karkala, Hebri, Kundapur, Malpe, Hoode etc. KSRTC officials expressed readiness to run the buses subject to rules. The deputy commissioner said that only 50 percent of passenger capacity can be accommodated in each bus to maintain social distance.

Udupi KSRTC bus stand

The private bus owners said that the transport industry which is already in doldrums will be further hit because of the rule on carrying 50 percent passengers. They said that they can operate only with a fare hike. But the DC said that the time is not suitable for bus fare hike. Private bus owners sought permission to introduce express buses between Udupi and Dakshina Kannada districts like the permission given to start industries. As bus owners failed to agree to conditions imposed by district administration, the bus owners decided to take a final decision after the conclusion of a state level meeting proposed to be held by the bus owners at Bengaluru with the participation of transport minister on Friday. The private bus owners also sought concession in toll charges.

DC G Jagadeesh, district superintendent of police N Vishnuvardhan, regional transport officer Ramakrishna Rai, Canara Bus Operators Association president Rajavarma Ballal, City Bus Owners Association president Kuilady Suresh Nayak and others were present.