At the Margao KTC bus stand, the restroom facilities designated for Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) drivers and conductors are in a state of severe neglect, raising urgent concerns over safety, hygiene, and accountability. The structure is plagued by leaking walls and persistent dampness, creating conditions that pose a serious risk of electric shocks due to exposed wiring in wet areas—an accident waiting to happen.
In addition to structural hazards, the water supply in the restroom is reportedly contaminated and unfit for use. Stagnant water and clogged drains have turned the space into a breeding ground for mosquitoes, heightening the risk of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. These conditions not only endanger the health of KTC staff but could potentially impact passengers, given the daily interactions between them.
The situation took a troubling turn when a reporter from O Heraldo visited the site to investigate. Upon inquiry, a local KTCL official referred the matter to a higher authority in Panjim. Instead of taking steps to address the concerns, the senior official allegedly threatened the journalist, warning that publishing the report would lead to police action. This attempt to silence the press raises serious questions about transparency and the willingness of KTCL authorities to address critical public service failures.
The deteriorating conditions at the Margao bus stand reflect broader neglect of essential infrastructure for public sector workers. Immediate action is needed to repair the facilities, ensure safe water access, and eliminate health hazards. Just as importantly, efforts to suppress journalistic reporting must be condemned, as a free press plays a vital role in exposing systemic issues and protecting public interest.