Guwahati Metro transport association demands doubling of bus fares

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The Guwahati Metro Transport Association (GMTA) has demanded the Regional Transport Authority to double the bus fares after the State government issued SOPs (Standard operating procedures) stating that the city buses will have to operate with half seating capacity.

The SOPs for Public Transport for both government and private vehicles are — All Public transport authorities shall enforce COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and seating inside the vehicles, carriers, containers, etc.

* Auto rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, and taxis shall operate with one driver and two passengers maintaining social distancing.

* City buses, intra-district, and inter-state buses will be allowed to operate with 50 per cent seating capacity.

* No passenger shall be allowed to travel standing inside the vehicle.

* Wearing of mask and observance of COVID-19 appropriate behavior will be mandatory for all passengers.

In this regard, while talking to The Sentinel, GMTA general secretary Bipul Kalita said that they will follow the directions issued by the government. However, the government should also look after the condition of the transport workers who will incur huge losses.

"Today, we attended a meeting with the Regional Transport Authority of Kamrup Metro where we were directed to implement the directions of the SOPs. If we operate with 50 per cent seating capacity then we cannot recover our fuel expenses. We have appealed to the RTA to allow us to charge double fare from the people. The COVID pandemic burnt a hole in our pockets last year. Thus, to save the transport workers the government will have to take responsibility," he added.

Also Watch: Two-day 'Bah Gosai Utsav' Concludes at Tamulpur, Baksa

Also Read: COVID-19: Assam Govt Releases Stringent Guidelines for Citizens, Daily Market to Close by 6 PM