MARGAO: Hundreds of passengers and bus operators are forced to eat dust, literally, as they are exposed to dust pollution at the makeshift KTC bus stand, which has been set up in view of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally on February 6 at Fatorda.
In view of the PM’s visit, the bus service operations at the KTC bus stand have been totally shifted to an open ground near the South Goa District Court.
Besides, passengers and even the bus operators have complained about the hardships caused by confusion regarding the change in the bus stand.
After a visit at the site by O Heraldo, it was noticed that water was being sprayed at regular intervals to settle the dust, but it is proving to be inadequate in curbing dust pollution.
Dinesh Manerkar, a private bus driver expressed his frustration over the dust pollution and said not only bus drivers and conductors, but even the passengers are facing a tough time in dealing with the dust.
“Yes, the authorities are seen spraying water on the ground, however, it is not proving to be enough and a cloud of dust is generated due to the movement of buses,” he complained.
He further said that they have no other option but to bear with the dust pollution.
Manerkar further informed that a large number of people are unaware about the shifting of the bus services from KTC bus stand and they are finding it tough to get the passengers.
“Many of the passengers are noticed waiting for buses at Old Market Circle instead of walking at the new venue,” he informed.
Liezly Ranjelo, a bus conductor from Cuncolim also complained about the dust pollution.
“The arrangements are not bad, but there are no required measures to prevent the dust pollution, which is causing severe hardships to the passengers and even to the bus operators,” Ranjelo said.
This correspondent found one Mahesh Gaonkar, accompanied with his wife, desperately searching for a bus to go to Canacona.
“I found the bus after inquiring for almost 20 minutes. The authorities should have made arrangements to help the passengers in locating the buses,” he said.
He too complained about the major dust pollution at the site. However, few of the passengers appreciated the efforts of the authorities and stated that extra efforts would have reduced hardships for the passengers.
Suzana Fernandes, a resident of Chinchinim, said that seating arrangements and toilet facilities have been provided at the site, which is a good initiative by the authorities.