Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Feb 19: A guidance camp for bus drivers and conductors of Ullal was held at the Bendore Sebastian community auditorium.
The programme was inaugurated by DySP B P Dinesh Kumar. Addressing the gathering, Dinesh said, “Private bus personnel may think that the police are there to trouble them. However, the police department is not aiming to levy fines on the private bus staff but rather to enforce the Motor Vehicle Act to prevent loss of life.”
ARTO Vishwanatha Nayak stated, “If the bus personnel maintain discipline, police officers will respect them. There is a close connection between the bus owners and staff in this district. Those requiring license renewal should undergo refresher training at Mudipu. CCTVs are installed to prevent over-speeding.”
Former president of the taluk panchayat, Mohammed Monu, expressed, “Bus drivers and conductors are akin to priests working in various religious centers. Bus owners face hardships. Provide service with a smile to the passengers.”
Dilraj Alva, president of Sri Mangaladevi Seva Samiti, emphasized, “Private buses have been operating in Dakshina Kannada for the past 110 years. Research needs to be conducted on this. The bus service in Mangaluru is the fastest. There is a bus every second. Although people have blessed us, their expectations are minimal. Avoid honking. Issue tickets. Refrain from reckless driving.”
Azeez Parthippady, owner of DK Bus Owners’ and East Zone Bus Owners’ Association, advised, “Do not use horns in no-horn zones. Do not inconvenience passengers by refusing to accept Rs 10 coins. If passengers decline, return the coins to the owners. Do not reject students' Chalo cards.”
Speaking on behalf of drivers, Altaf remarked, “Police immediately file cases against drivers once a video goes viral on social media. They should investigate first before taking action. Bus owners, who purchase new-design buses every five years, should prioritize the welfare fund for drivers and conductors. We should be provided with security.”
ACP Geeta Kulkarni, inspector Krishnanda G Nayaka, Anand E, inspector D Hulugappa, honorary president Kareem, Jayaram Shekha, Ramachandra Pilar, Francis D’Souza, Aneesh Shetty, Abdul Majid, Avin, Sachin, and Shabarish were present.