Bangalore: The state govt has decided to in crease the distance now available at 50 Km, to 60 Km, for student bus-passes, to those who undertake travel daily. Transport minister R. Ashok said that students could travel up to 60kms to reach Schools on concessional rates.

He spoke to pressmen after dedicating a set of new KSRTC buses, which are eco-friendly, and do not emit harmful black gases on Tuesday near the Vidhana Soudha, for public use.

He indicated that a satellite bus stand project near Peenya was under completion and would be opened soon for commuters.

The KSRTC buses intent on preventing air pollution were using ethanol, honge oil, Neem oil and other alternate fuels, which are costlier than diesel by Rs2 a litre.

He expected the state to bear the additional expenses. He assured that all cities would have town bus facility in Kolar such services will deliver the passengers, freedom from excessive Taxi or autorickshaw charges.

CM DVS Gowda who was present assured all help to the transport department. The trainees’ stipend had been raised by Rs 1,000 pm.

30,000 new persons will be recruited in Transport Department in the next 5 Years, CM said.