Margao: The Road Transport Office has decided to give temporary permits to at least 3 buses to ply on the KTC, District Hospital route to alleviate the problems faced by the people reaching the New District Hospital.
However, as we reach out to understand the problem and its root, the urgent ad-hoc opening and the operation of the Hospital is the main reason behind the deficiencies. Herald had reported how people are having a tough time to reach the New District Hospital from KTC Bus stand as there was an absence of a notified bus stop.
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The Hospital Head Dr. Ira Almeida took cognisance and has started two Balrath busses, which are taking people to KTC and bringing them from there to the Hospital.
Similarly, the Assistant Director of Transport (Enforcement) Vinod Arlekar said that he is in a process to temporarily permit 3 buses plying on and near the District Hospital to take passengers at KTC, drop them off at Hospital and vice versa for the convenience of the ailing.
However, a proposal for the construction of a footpath and also the need for widening of this busy road have been pending for quite some time. The rickshaws standing at the hospital too are not yet authorised as there is no stand notified.
DySP Prabodh Shirvoikar said, “We have sent a proposal for a footpath on this road. The proposal is with PWD.”
In May, GOACAN had requested the South Goa District Collector to call for an urgent meeting to prepare a plan to handle Road Safety & Traffic Management on a short term basis as well as when the schools reopen and more sections of the District Hospital get activated.
“As there are issues of road engineering, pedestrian crossings, fixing of bus stops, proper street illumination, road signage, designated parking for patients, visitors, persons with disabilities etc. it is important to involve all agencies concerned” said Roland Martins of GOACAN.
However, according to the authorities, no meeting has been held yet. The Directorate of Transport has to plan and decide whether there will be a new motorcycle pilot & rickshaw stand especially designated for the District Hospital.
