Women in West Bengal who encounter difficulties while trying to board government buses can now reach out to a dedicated toll-free helpline set up by the state Transport Department. This initiative aims to streamline the reporting of complaints related to public transportation.
During a press conference on Thursday, Transport Minister Arjun Singh announced that the helpline would be available 24/7. He indicated that complaints have been received through various channels, including media and social platforms, as well as directly from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee about government buses failing to stop for female passengers.
To address these concerns, a control room has been established at the Transport Department’s office on R N Mukherjee Road. Different toll-free numbers have been designated for various transport corporations: North Bengal State Transport Corporation (9046229025), South Bengal Transport Corporation (7699993930), Calcutta Tramways Company Limited (8697733391/92), Calcutta State Transport Corporation (03322360462/63), and West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation (9432597098). Additionally, the department plans to equip conductors with body cameras to document any misconduct and prevent revenue loss, with the tender for this equipment scheduled to open on September 5.
Minister Singh also highlighted that approximately ₹1579 crore in penalties and fines for traffic violations has been owed for over five years, affecting more than 3.62 lakh vehicles. Starting September 7, the department will initiate a campaign to collect these outstanding amounts within a month.
Under the new BJP government, there are aspirations to convert the entire fleet of state-run buses to air-conditioned models. Singh mentioned that new buses are expected to be introduced ahead of the Durga Puja festival, with plans for expansion by March 2027.
To enhance inter-state travel, West Bengal has signed a reciprocal transport agreement with several states, including Odisha, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Sikkim, and Delhi, aiming to increase the number of AC buses operating between these regions.
The Transport Department is also considering replacing existing totos with e-rickshaws due to a Supreme Court ruling prohibiting the registration of new totos. Singh stated that while totos will not be banned outright, their operations will be confined to less trafficked routes, and local committees will be set up to facilitate the introduction of autos and nine- to ten-seater vehicles to create job opportunities.
In efforts to revive Kolkata’s tram system, companies from Australia and Belarus have expressed interest in collaborating, while a survey report from RITES is anticipated soon. Singh explained that the revitalized tram service may utilize battery power instead of traditional overhead wiring.
Finally, the minister reiterated that online cab and bike taxi services operating without proper registration have one month to comply as commercial vehicles, and aggregating companies are encouraged to establish local offices.
