In a major blessing for passengers, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has decided to allow banks to establish ATMs at all bus stations across the State.
The first of its kind initiative by the Corporation will be a major boost for commuters who are forced to depend on ATM counters which are mostly located far from the stations. The KSRTC management had forwarded circulars to all depot authorities this past week, asking them to identify suitable locations in their depots for installing ATMs. If space is available, the KSRTC may consider allowing more than one ATM per station, officials added.
Speaking on this, Sharaf Mohammed, Special officer as well as Chief Traffic Officer, KSRTC, said that they were expecting reviews in this regard from concerned depots within a few days. “Once we receive further details from officers on space and location, we will float tenders,” Sharaf said.
The KSRTC currently has 18 depots and 45 sub depots, along with 18 operating centres in the State. The ATM counters are expected to come up in all these centres, if it meets the requirements set by the management. Even though the KSRTC had mooted the project in 2011 for 60 stations, it was not executed owing to technical issues.
“We decided to go ahead with the project this year since the salaries of KSRTC employees were being transacted through banks starting last June. All transactions for staff, retired employees and pensioners are executed through banks to facilitate e-governance. Once ATM counters are introduced, it will benefit employees,” officials said.
The KSRTC also hopes to cash in on the extra rental income that would accrue through the ATM counters. “The rentals for the space will be on a monthly basis. At least 80 to 100 square feet are required. The minimum rate per square feet is expected to be not less than Rs 50,” officials added.