The Mangaluru division of the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is facing significant challenges in meeting the increasing demand for public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. Despite a surge in demand following the government’s Shakti scheme, the division is still awaiting permanent permits for 37 routes, hindering its ability to expand services.
Rajesh Shetty, Senior Divisional Controller of KSRTC Mangaluru, revealed that the division has identified 16 new routes based on public demand and has submitted applications to the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for permits. However, none of these applications have been approved. Additionally, the division is currently operating buses on 13 routes with temporary permits, which are valid for only four months. KSRTC has requested an extension of these permits for up to five years, but the approvals are still pending.
Shetty also highlighted a recent court verdict in favor of KSRTC, allowing the Mangaluru division to operate buses on the Mangaluru-Karkala route. However, the Road Transport Authority (RTA) has yet to convene a meeting to finalize the permits, despite the division’s seven-year-long battle for these rights.
Currently, the division operates 38 city buses on various routes. Shetty emphasized that if the pending permits and extensions are granted, the number of KSRTC buses in Mangaluru could double. This would not only allow for the introduction of new buses but also support the recruitment of additional staff, significantly enhancing the city’s public transportation infrastructure.