Kochi: A multi-axle Volvo bus, deployed on the Ernakulam-Bangalore route, has been idling in the depot here for the last 12 days, incurring losses amounting to lakhs of rupees to the KSRTC. The reason being the negligence of concerned officials in replacing its cracked front-windshield, a work that usually takes a single day.
“The Multiaxle Garuda Volvo bus was ready for service after the maintenance works in connection with the CF (certificate of fitness) tests by April 25. “The bus was handed over to the Ernakulam depot from Aluva regional workshop, and the only work pending was the replacement of the front windshield glass. However, nothing was done after that,” said a source.
A single trip of the bus, with reservation facility, used to fetch Rs 90, 000 on an average. “We’ve ordered an internal probe, and a show-cause was given to the concerned mechanical head officer. However, the reply was that there is a shortage of the glass and it takes time to bring the material from Bangalore,” said a senior official when contacted.
However, officials in the knowhow rejected the argument. “Now the front glasses for Volvo buses are locally purchased from Kottayam due to a difference in cost. While the material procured from the company directly cost Rs 84,000, we can purchase the glass locally at Rs 45,000. In this case, no effort was made for timely purchase,” the sources said.
