Kerala - Kochi   

More Thirukochi buses likely to be introduced

KOCHI: The KSRTC would reinforce its presence in the city and suburbs, taking note of the sound passenger patronage for the 50 Thirukochi series of buses that were introduced over a week ago.

The average daily collection of each Thirukochi bus is over Rs 4,000 as compared to the over Rs 3,000 a week ago. This is expected to increase further to at least Rs. 6,000 as more passengers attune their schedule in keeping with the bus timings. Many commuters who were so far dependant on private buses have begun opting for the RTC services since they are punctual, comfortable and safer to travel. Saturday's flash strike by private buses in the Thripunithura-Eroor route after passengers opposed the attempts by some workers to reduce the collection of a Thirukochi bus in the route, has further eroded the image of private buses.

The RTC is keeping all options open, including operating more Thirukochi services in routes where there is inadequate public transport. Ten more non-AC buses purchased under the JNNURM scheme would soon begin service in Kochi.

Reacting to opposition from some quarters for the RTC seeking permit to operate more buses in Kochi, the agency's zonal officer G. Jayaraj said that it can operate any number of services networking the city. There might be a cap on the number of city buses, but not on moffusil services, he said.

The Thirukochi buses are plying based on ‘moffusil-ordinary' permits. This means, they can operate well beyond Corporation of Kochi limits. The KSRTC has requested members of the public to give their suggestions on the new buses at the Ernakulam (phone: 2372033) and Aluva (2624242) bus depots.

The Ernakulam RTO C. G. Michael said that there has to be healthy competition among private and KSRTC buses in Kochi. “We are getting many telephone calls and letters from members of the public, seeking more Thirukochi services in different routes. The feasibility of operating them in new routes is being looked into. People must step up their vigilance and inform us (phone: 2422246) if private buses indulge in permit violations or cancel their trips. Overcrowding in private buses and also traffic congestion created by cars and two-wheelers can be reduced if there are more Thirukochi services,” he said.

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