By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 24: In a huge relief to hundreds of parents and students, the Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) has decided to continue its school bus service, reversing its earlier decision to discontinue operations from April 1, following strong objections from parents across Shillong.
The decision comes after a section of parents, whose children study at Kendriya Vidyalaya Upper Shillong, met MTC and state government officials, highlighting the financial burden that would arise from shifting to private or STEMS services.
Earlier in January this year, MTC Managing Director K.L. Nongbri had announced the discontinuation of the service, citing a Board decision. The move had triggered widespread resentment, with parents describing it as abrupt and insensitive, especially for families with multiple school-going children.
Following the intervention and discussions, including a meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Monday, parents were assured that the MTC would continue operating school services by inducting a new fleet.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with MTC officials here on Tuesday, a parent representative, Sony Kharjana said the Director had confirmed that 10 new buses have been procured, and the service will continue under MTC management. However, parents may have to temporarily rely on alternative arrangements until the new buses are operational.
The continuation of the service is expected to benefit economically weaker families, as private and STEMS buses reportedly charge between Rs 2,000 and Rs 3,000 per month, compared to MTC’s earlier fare of around Rs 1,150 for up to 5 km.
Kharjana also informed that, in compliance with court directives, the MTC will use only new buses where trained drivers and caretakers will be deployed, replacing older vehicles.
According to her, the MTC has further allowed parents to pay fees in instalments, though concerns were raised over pending dues by some families.
She said that the MTC Director had told them those with outstanding payments may not be allowed to avail the service until dues are cleared.
Kharjana said that the corporation is expected to issue a formal public notification soon regarding the resumption of services, likely to coincide with the reopening of schools next month after examinations.
Welcoming the decision, the parents said that MTC buses have long been a reliable and affordable mode of transport in Shillong, and expressed hope that the service will continue without disruption in the coming academic session.
