Akola, June 8
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik warned of strict action against private bus operators and vehicle drivers found picking up passengers within a 200-metre radius of State Transport (ST) bus stands.
Speaking to reporters on Monday after inspecting the Akola Central Bus Stand, Sarnaik said the state government had taken serious note of complaints regarding private buses and vehicles allegedly transporting passengers meant for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC).
He stated that a special enforcement drive would be launched to curb such practices and clear instructions had been issued to take stringent legal action against those violating the rules.
“Private bus operators and vehicle drivers found picking up passengers within 200 metres of ST bus stands will face strict legal action. Criminal cases may be registered against offenders and they may even be sent to jail,” the minister said.
Sarnaik said a special strategy had been prepared for the campaign under the supervision of IPS-level officers to ensure effective implementation.
Reviewing facilities at the Akola Central Bus Stand, the minister said inspections of ST bus depots across the state had revealed shortcomings related to cleanliness and passenger amenities at several locations.
To address these concerns, a special cleanliness drive was being undertaken with emphasis on improving passenger facilities.
He further said that toilet facilities at bus stands, which earlier required payment, had now been made completely free for passengers.
Though certain challenges remained in the ongoing cleanliness campaign, efforts were underway to resolve all issues at the earliest, he added.
The minister said the state government was continuously taking corrective measures to make MSRTC services cleaner, safer and more passenger-friendly.
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