Minister Ponnam Prabhakar Reviews 30-Month TGSRTC Performance and Future Infrastructure Plans
Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar reviewed 30 months of TGSRTC performance, highlighting significant investments in new bus fleets, infrastructure upgrades, financial arrears reduction, and expanded employee welfare programs across the state.
As the state government marks the conclusion of its first 30 months in office, Transport and Backward Classes Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar recently led a comprehensive review of the TGSRTC performance and future development strategies. Held at the state secretariat, the session focused on evaluating the progress of public transportation initiatives and addressing pending infrastructure projects.
Minister Ponnam Prabhakar highlighted that from 2023 to 2026, the state government invested Rs. 1,078 crore to acquire 2,815 new buses, significantly bolstering the public fleet. Furthermore, the expansion of local transport infrastructure continues with the sanctioning of two additional depots in Nagaram and Peddapalli. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to enhancing daily transit services for the approximately 61 lakh passengers who rely on the network's 10,173 buses and 38,128 employees, covering 35 lakh kilometers daily.
Improving Infrastructure and Employee Welfare
A significant portion of the review was dedicated to the modernization of healthcare facilities and employee support. The Tarnaka RTC Hospital has been upgraded from providing basic medical services to offering super specialty care. Regarding workforce stability, 1,137 appointments have been completed under the Bread Winner Scheme and Medical Invalidation programs. The Minister also addressed the reinstatement of 244 out of 490 formerly removed employees, directing officials to expedite reviews for the remaining cases.
Financial management remains a priority, with the government successfully reducing various arrears to improve the organization's economic health. Specifically, CSS arrears dropped from Rs. 1,096.90 crore to Rs. 862 crore, while PF arrears decreased from Rs. 2,018.15 crore to Rs. 1,714.39 crore. These measures aim to stabilize the operational finances of the state transport body.
Future Roadmap and Electric Bus Expansion
Looking ahead, the administration is focusing on sustainable mobility. Currently, 1,050 electric buses are in operation across the state. Officials have been tasked with submitting a detailed report to identify high-profit routes versus those incurring losses to optimize deployment. The Minister also emphasized the need for a collaborative approach regarding green initiatives, directing that a special meeting involving transport heads from various South Indian states be arranged to discuss pollution control and advanced EV policy implementation.
Infrastructure development remains a primary focus, with plans for upcoming foundation stones for stations in Vemulawada, Kathlapur, Huzurnagar, Kodad, and Nagar Kurnool. Furthermore, the government is committed to implementing an 11 per cent fitment for employees under the RPS-2021 framework starting July 1, alongside initiating the process for recognized union elections. The meeting concluded with directives to finalize pending welfare settlements for affected employees, ensuring continued support for the state's transport workforce.
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