The All Goa Private Bus Owners Association vehemently opposes the government’s decision to introduce electric buses in Panjim, following the Smart City Meeting held on March 14th. Members of the association gathered at Azad Maidan on Sunday to express their discontent, stating that they were not consulted or informed about the decision made by the Chief Minister.
According to the association, the government’s move to allow electric buses to operate in Panjim is seen as a threat to private bus owners, with fears that they may be completely phased out under the Smart City project. They claim that the decision has been imposed forcefully by the Goa government and the transport department.
The association cited a draft notification released on December 28, 2023, which indicated the cessation of private bus operations on various routes including Panjim to Bambolim, Taleigao, Miramar, and Dona Paula. Instead, Kadamba buses were slated to take over these routes. Despite filing numerous objections in response to this notification, the bus owners claim to have received no specific response.
Furthermore, the association alleges that the Chief Minister assured them that no meetings would be held without their presence and that discussions about bus operations would not take place without their involvement. However, the recent Smart City Meeting on March 14th resulted in the issuance of a final notification, allowing electric buses to begin operating from March 18th, 2024.
Expressing frustration and resentment, the bus owners voiced concerns for the livelihoods of families involved in bus operations, including drivers, conductors, cleaners, and mechanics. They perceive the government’s decision as a threat to their livelihoods and are seeking further dialogue and resolution with the authorities.
