Shocking Allegations: Collusion Between Bus Operators & Cooperative Society

In a recent parliamentary session, Transport Minister Osman Mahomed laid bare the shocking truth about alleged malpractices plaguing the public transport sector. Accusing bus operators and a local cooperative society of colluding to defraud public funds meant for free travel schemes and diesel subsidies, Mahomed’s stark admission came as no surprise to those well aware of the industry’s deep-seated problems.

The Alarming State of Public Transport

The nation has been reeling from a barrage of complaints regarding inconsistent and unreliable bus services, especially in the southern region.

MP Ashley Ramdass’s pointed questions on the matter prompted Minister Mahomed to take a tough stance in an apparent bid to restore order and accountability to the troubled sector.

A Fleet Management System: The Answer to Prayers?

In a much-needed initiative, Mahomed unveiled plans to introduce a state-of-the-art Fleet Management System.

Equipping every bus with GPS technology, the system will link them to a control room at the National Land Transport Authority (NLTA).

Expected to launch later this year, this innovative system will provide instant data on the number of buses in operation and their respective routes, allowing for enhanced oversight and greater accountability.

A New Approach to Fuel Subsidies

As part of the overhaul, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) governing the Free Travel Compensation between the NLTA and bus operators will be rewritten.

The shift from a daily payment structure to one based on actual trips taken will significantly reduce discrepancies in mileage calculations, ensuring more accurate fuel subsidy disbursements.

Licenses to be Revoked: A New Era for Bus Operators

Mahomed’s bold plan is aiming to weed out inefficient operators and create a level playing field for more reliable players.

Operators failing to meet service conditions will have their licenses revoked, paving the way for a new generation of transport operators to seize the opportunity.

Staffing Issues: Foreign Workers to the Rescue

Acknowledging the public transport sector’s chronic staffing shortages, Mahomed revealed plans to employ foreign workers to alleviate these issues.

However, this decision has sparked concerns about the impact on local employment.

A Scathing Critique of the Previous Regime

With characteristic candor, Mahomed lambasted the previous administration’s policies for perpetuating the problems afflicting the public transport sector.

He accused them of turning a blind eye to malpractices and neglecting to address the root causes of the issues.

A Commitment to Change

In a reassuring address to Parliament, Mahomed vowed to restore the sector to its former glory.

“I assure this house that my ministry is committed to bringing significant improvements to bus services across the island, ensuring that all financial resources allocated for public transport are handled with the utmost responsibility and accountability.”

The South Remains a Concern

Focusing on the persistent irregularities in the southern routes, Mahomed expressed dismay at the ongoing problems faced by bus services on routes 87 and 11.

He revealed startling evidence of malpractices, including buses not operating on their designated routes yet still receiving public subsidies.

A Call to Action

As Mahomed concludes his impassioned address, it becomes clear that the public transport sector is at a crossroads.

With the government’s commitment to change and the introduction of the Fleet Management System, there is hope for a brighter future.

However, the sector’s long-term viability and the public’s satisfaction depend on the swift implementation of these reforms.

Source: Le Mauricien