'Transport dept going all out to ensure hassle-free pandal hopping for Kolkatans'

Kolkata: State Transport minister Suvendu Adhikari said that his department is making all possible arrangements for hassle-free pandal hopping for the people of Kolkata.

"There will be additional buses and tram facilities on the days of Durga Puja till late night to ensure that the people are not inconvenienced by any means," said Adhikari in response to a query from Trinamool Congress MLA Samir Kumar Jana, on the measures taken by his department for Durga Puja.

"We will also have bus services for enabling the people of the state to visit the Pujas of the Bonedi Baris and the Rajbaris in the city and its surroundings, including those that are major crowd-pullers. The South Bengal State Transport Corporation and North Bengal State Transport Corporation will also have bus facilities to help the Puja revellers soak in the festive spirit of some of the leading Pujas in the districts," he maintained.

It may be mentioned that the state Transport department has earned a revenue of more than Rs 9.65 crore through bus services from October 15 to 19.

Speaking about the massive boost in water transport sector, Adhikari said that at present, 240 new vessels have

been pressed into service for passengers since 2011 after the TMC government assumed power. The number of such vessels in the 34-year rule of the Left Front government was only 25.

"We have created a record when it comes to construction of jetties across the state. Till March 2019 this year, we have constructed 142 new jetties and have set a target of coming up with another 56 in the next two years," the minister said.

He maintained that his department has adopted a clear policy in introducing buses only in those routes that are economically viable.