Kochi : Angamaly-based industrialist K T Jose has donated Rs 40 lakh to help cash-strapped Kerala State Road Transport Corporation ( KSRTC ) purchase a new bus. The contribution, the first such instance by an individual, comes at a critical time for the state-run utility, which has been forced to take private buses on a wet-lease basis to maintain smooth operations.
Handing the funds over to transport minister C P John, Satheesan commended the gesture, expressing hope that the initiative would inspire other individuals and organisations to support KSRTC. Jose presented the cheque to chief minister V D Satheesan at CM’s chamber on Wednesday.
This model can be followed by others and will help the corporation at a time when it is extending the Priyadarshini free ride scheme for women,” he said. Jose said he was inspired to contribute following a public call by the chief minister seeking community support for the transport utility. “Calicut City Cooperative Bank had previously donated a vehicle to KSRTC,” he said.
Higher education minister Roji M John also praised the decision as an exemplary act of civic commitment. “This is the first instance when an individual donates money to buy a bus. However, he put forward one condition — the new bus must operate out of Angamaly depot and service a route connecting Athirappilly tourism destination. John assured that KSRTC would honour the request.