Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has firmly clarified the intended use of the Balrath bus scheme, stating that the buses are exclusively meant for high school students living within a 3-kilometer radius of their schools. The scheme, fully funded by the government, was designed to provide safe, convenient, and cost-free transportation for students residing nearby.
However, the Chief Minister raised concerns over reports that some schools have been misusing the service by operating Balrath buses on extended routes covering 15 to 20 kilometers. Such misuse, he cautioned, strays from the scheme’s original objective and risks denying genuine beneficiaries their rightful access to transportation.
Sawant urged all schools to strictly follow the guidelines to ensure that public resources are used responsibly and equitably. He emphasized that the scheme must remain focused on its goal of supporting local students' daily commutes.
To further strengthen student transportation, the Chief Minister also announced plans for a new initiative aimed at expanding the Balrath bus fleet. The upcoming scheme will increase the number of buses and enhance the quality and reach of services, ensuring better coverage and improved accessibility for students throughout Goa.