To decongest our roads the government should have gone all out to improve the public transport system in the State but it has miserably failed on this front. Being a frequent traveler by bus on the Mapusa-Panaji route it can be seen that almost all those buses would fail a proper fitness test. The buses are in an awful condition rattling all over making the travel so uncomfortable and unpleasant.
The bus drivers and conductors are without the required uniform and tickets are also never issued to the passengers. Despite being prohibited some buses play very loud music. It is distasteful to also see the conductors speak very rudely to passengers especially to young students.
It is incumbent on the Transport department and the Traffic wing of the Goa Police to sternly crack down on all violation of the rules by these buses. Filling the buses to over capacity like sardines must also be regulated and stamped out. This would improve the public transport system and encourage more people to use it. The authorities must also look into the current pathetic state of our bus terminals by ensuring that proper toilet facilities are provided with the focus being on cleanliness and all round sanitation. There is also need of proper illumination for the safety of passengers traveling after sunset and early morning. Needless to state the menace of stray dogs and cattle squatting inside our bus stands must be dealt with for the safety of those using the public transport system.
