MT Krishna Babu Assumes Leadership at APSRTC with Focus on Modernization and Passenger Satisfaction
In a significant administrative development, MT Krishna Babu, the Special Chief Secretary for Transport, Roads & Buildings, officially took over as the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) on Monday. The assumption of charge occurred at his chamber within the RTC headquarters located in Vijayawada, marking a new chapter for the state's public transport system.
Babu steps into this pivotal role following the retirement of Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao on January 31, bringing with him extensive experience in transportation and infrastructure management. His appointment is expected to steer APSRTC towards enhanced operational efficiency and financial robustness.
Comprehensive Review of APSRTC Operations and Financial Health
Immediately after assuming office, Babu convened a detailed review meeting with senior APSRTC officials to assess various critical aspects of the corporation's functioning. The discussion encompassed a broad spectrum of areas, including:
- The current financial position of APSRTC
- Bus maintenance protocols and schedules
- Quality of passenger services and amenities at bus stations
- Initiatives for employee welfare and support
This holistic evaluation aimed to identify strengths and address challenges, setting the stage for strategic improvements across the board.
Stree Shakti Scheme Boosts Women's Mobility and RTC Revenue
During the meeting, Babu highlighted the remarkable success of the Stree Shakti free bus scheme, a flagship initiative introduced by the state government to empower women through accessible transportation. He revealed that approximately 23 to 25 lakh women passengers are availing of free travel daily under this scheme, reflecting its widespread acceptance and impact.
Furthermore, Babu noted a substantial increase in the proportion of women passengers utilizing RTC buses, which has surged to 65-67 percent. In buses where the free travel scheme is implemented, the occupancy ratio has impressively crossed 90 percent. This high utilization not only promotes gender inclusivity but also contributes significantly to the financial stability of APSRTC by ensuring consistent ridership.
Passenger Feedback and Initiatives for Enhanced Amenities
Referencing the outcomes of an IVRS survey conducted on APSRTC services, Babu shared that 80 percent of passengers expressed satisfaction with the overall services provided. However, the survey also brought to light areas needing attention, with 20 percent of respondents pointing out issues related to toilet facilities and drinking water availability at bus stations.
In response to this feedback, the newly appointed MD issued clear instructions to the concerned officials to prioritize the resolution of these amenity-related issues. The goal is to swiftly address these concerns and further elevate passenger satisfaction, ensuring a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for all.
Ambitious Electrification Plan for APSRTC Fleet
Outlining a visionary roadmap for sustainable transportation, Babu announced the government's ambitious target to transition the entire RTC diesel bus fleet to electric buses within the next five years. This green initiative aligns with global trends towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.
To kickstart this transition, Babu disclosed that 1,050 electric buses have been sanctioned for Andhra Pradesh under the PM e-Bus Sewa scheme. Additionally, plans are actively underway to introduce another 1,450 electric and CNG buses in a phased manner across the state. This move is expected to modernize the fleet, reduce operational costs, and minimize the ecological footprint of public transport.
Diversifying Revenue Streams and Supporting Employees
The review meeting also placed emphasis on strengthening non-fare revenue sources to bolster the corporation's financial health. Key strategies discussed included:
- The commercial utilization of vacant RTC lands to generate income
- Expansion of cargo services to tap into the logistics market
These initiatives are projected to contribute approximately Rs 210 crore annually, providing a significant boost to APSRTC's revenue streams beyond ticket sales.
In a compassionate move towards employee welfare, Babu mentioned that the corporation has initiated steps to provide alternative employment opportunities and additional monetary benefits to a total of 682 medically unfit employees. This initiative underscores APSRTC's commitment to supporting its workforce and ensuring their well-being, even in challenging circumstances.
With these comprehensive plans and proactive measures, MT Krishna Babu's leadership is poised to drive APSRTC towards a future marked by innovation, sustainability, and enhanced service delivery for the people of Andhra Pradesh.
