Daijiworld Media Network – Kasargod
Kasargod, July 20: In a move welcomed by regular commuters on the busy Mangaluru–Kasargod route, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) will soon introduce four additional Rajahamsa buses, following strong public demand and the success of a recently launched trial service.
Rajesh Shetty, divisional controller of KSRTC, Mangaluru division, confirmed the development while being felicitated by members of the popular WhatsApp commuters’ group ‘Saha Yatri’. The group expressed their gratitude by honouring him with shawls, thanking him for fulfilling his earlier assurance to improve long-distance connectivity on this route.
Shetty had earlier promised that regular KSRTC services with designated stops would be introduced after the highway works on the Kasaragod stretch were completed. With the trial run receiving an overwhelming response from the public, the corporation has decided to expand services to improve convenience for daily travellers.
Group members including Kishore Enangoodlu, Lokesh Jodukallu, Shivakrishna Niduvaje, and others appreciated the quick response and said the consistent follow-up by commuters had strengthened public trust in the transport department.
DDMA boosts school safety amid heavy rain
Meanwhile, with relentless rain continuing across the Kasaragod district, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), led by Additional District Magistrate and CEO P. Akhil, has ramped up safety measures in schools across the region.
Taking serious note of rain-related hazards on school premises, the DDMA has directed the immediate formation of expert committees to assess structural safety, electrical hazards, wildlife intrusion risks, and the presence of water bodies near school areas.
Departments including KSEB, PWD, Fire and Rescue Services, RTO, and forest department have been asked to carry out detailed inspections at the earliest. Local administrative secretaries have also been instructed to offer full technical assistance to ensure safety protocols are strictly followed.
In addition, school authorities have been tasked with updating their respective school disaster management plans, which must now include an annexure outlining specific safety provisions.
The deputy director of Education has been instructed to compile meeting reports and submit an action-taken document to the district collector within a week. The additional district magistrate emphasised the importance of strict adherence to these safety guidelines, especially in light of the continued downpour affecting the region.