Panaji: Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) is actively working on a proposal to introduce bus fare concessions for women across its transport network in Goa. The initiative is currently undergoing govt review, said chairperson Ulhas Tuyekar on Wednesday.“The progress of ongoing welfare proposals is in close coordination with chief minister Pramod Sawant and transport minister Mauvin Godinho. Unlike private commercial entities that are aimed primarily at profit maximisation, the corporation functions primarily as a public service provider,” he said.Regarding the financial viability of free or discounted transport schemes, he said that the existing financial model under which the state transit system operates is meant to be a social service utility rather than a revenue-driven enterprise. “The corporation relies on govt funding. Monthly revenue generated across routes, roughly estimated at around Rs 10 lakh in baseline operational receipts, is directed back to state accounts, with govt compensating the operational deficit to maintain affordable fares,” he said.He further addressed speculation over free bus services for commuters ahead of upcoming elections.“It is ultimately govt’s responsibility to evaluate and implement large-scale fare waivers. For now, a detailed framework has been presented to govt for review, and discussions are currently ongoing for fare concessions for women.”
