Panaji
In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing road safety and addressing alcohol-related concerns, the Kadamba Transport Corporation Limited (KTCL) has announced the implementation of fortnightly or monthly counselling sessions for its drivers and conductors.
These counselling sessions will encompass essential subjects including de-addiction, life skills, and an examination of the underlying causes of negative emotions and feelings.
The decision was taken during a board meeting chaired by Navelim MLA Ulhas Tuecar on Monday, signaling a commitment to the well-being of KTCL staff and the safety of passengers. Expert counsellors will be enlisted to conduct 30-minute sessions at each depot, fostering a supportive environment for positive change.
The timing of this initiative is critical for KTCL, as it has faced 201 accidents in the last five years (2018-2023), resulting in ten fatalities. Nonetheless, recent data from KTC authorities reveals a significant reduction in accidents, with 21 reported in 2020-2021 and 28 in 2021-2022-the lowest figures recorded in the past five years. However, it is noteworthy that in 2022-23, the number experienced a slight increase, reaching 38.
In addition to counseling, KTCL is set to introduce four alcohol meters strategically placed at major bus stands in Panaji, Margao, Mapusa, and Vasco. These devices will be used for random checks in response to complaints or suspicions of drunken driving by Kadamba bus drivers.
This decision follows the suspension and subsequent arrest of a Kadamba bus driver last week by the Old Goa police for allegedly driving a crowded bus in an intoxicated state, endangering passengers and other commuters.
Addressing the recent incident that prompted this initiative, General Manager of KTCL, SL Ghate, said, "The alcoholmeter will act as a deterrent; however, we will also put expert counselors with such drivers for counselling. We have seen that such counselling sessions have become very effective. The board has stressed counseling every fortnight or monthly in every depot for 30 minutes. There are more than 1400 drivers and conductors employed in the corporation."