NWKRTC yet to get Rs 674-cr reimbursement under ‘Shakti’

The North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), which operates buses from six districts in the region, is yet to get a reimbursement of Rs 674 crore from the government against expenses under the 'Shakti' scheme of free bus journey for women till May end.

NWKRTC chairman Bharamagouda (Raju) Kage said the corporation had spent Rs 2,915 crore for the scheme from June 2023 to May 2025 and the government had so far reimbursed Rs 2,241 crore.

Speaking to reporters after receiving a memorandum from a delegation of aspirants for the posts of drivers-cum-conductors, he said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy would be urged to take steps to fill up 2,814 posts in NWKRTC as per the 2019 notification, though the finance department had given approval to recruit 1,000 persons only.

"We need more staff. A total of 700 new buses are coming, which need 700 more driver-cum-conductors. This will be brought to the notice of the government. After discussions, a decision will be taken in a couple of days," Kage said.

'Vayavya Snehi' app

NWKRTC managing director Priyanga M urged the corporation's staff to utilise the newly-introduced 'Vayavya Snehi' mobile app to get their salary statements, information about PF, pending leaves, etc.

From July 1, applications for PF and VPF loan can also be submitted through the app.