Minister of State for Transport Bimal Shah said on Monday that each of the private operators would be paid Rs 7 per km up to 250 kms and Rs 6.75 per km for buses running beyond 250 kms but not exceeding 400 kms. Private operators will be allowed to employ a driver on the bus, while its conductor will be employed by the GSRTC.

Shah said that maintenance aspect would have to be looked after by private operators, adding that the GSRTC would earn a profit of Rs 2 per km. Over a dozen bids were received from private operators which have already been finalised. The GSRTC will not invite tenders and any private party can approach the corporation directly to let buses on contract.

He stated the GSRTC also proposed to introduce ST bus services in six major cities with the municipal corporations and urban development authorities.

He informed that the GSRTC was having, 8,000 buses at present against a requirement of 15,000 buses. The present total loss incurred by the corporation is Rs 12 crore with an annual recurring loss of Rs 2 to 3 crore, Shah added.