The Telangana Government on Wednesday accorded an administrative sanction of Rs 150 crores for the purchase 500 new buses by the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC).
The Telangana RTC has a fleet of 10,744 buses, which travel 35 lakh kilometres transporting 90 lakh people every day. Different types of buses, ranging from Pallevelugus to the Vennela A/C sleepers, are operated to meet the varying journey requirements of the passengers.
As per the norms, the RTC was due to replace 1,613 buses in 2014-15. They include 621 Pallevelugu buses.
The issue was discussed during a review meeting held by Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao with transport and RTC officials on October 16 last year. The officials had stated that the RTC with a debt burden of Rs. 2912 crores and accumulated losses amounting to Rs. 989 crores was not in a position to allocate the required finances for the purchase of new buses.
The Chief Minister had agreed in principle during the review meeting to provide financial assistance of Rs. 150 crores for the purchase of 500 new buses. Orders were given on Wednesday according administrative sanction for the same.
While 400 Pallevelugu buses will be buses purchased at a cost of Rs 80 crores, the RTC will buy 100 A/C and other special type buses for Rs 70 crores. (INN)