Manoj Agarwala, Senior VP, redBus

Allow private buses to share government infrastrcuture

With regard to inter-city bus transport sector, we would like the government to consider is enabling the sharing of boarding and dropping point infrastructure between government and private buses. The RTCs have large facilities in every city, referred to as state or government bus stands, from where they operate their buses, offering conveniences such as restrooms, booking counters and waiting areas.

On the contrary, private buses usually pick-up and drop passengers on the roadside, with no shelter or comfort factor for the travellers. We feel such government infrastructure can and should be shared with private players for the benefit of the sector as whole. The right partnership can make a huge difference to the experience of bus travel and any policy change to this effect would be welcome.”

As told to Shahkar Abidi