BEST’s GPS plan hits roadblock

Over two years after the BEST decided to introduce Global Positioning system-based (GPS) monitoring of buses; the organisation seems to be crawling towards the execution of the project. Several months ago the transport wing had claimed that the GPS system was a success at the experimental stage but its full scale implementation is yet to begin. And by all indications, it is unlikely to begin anytime soon.

A senior official from the BEST’s transport wing told DNA that the previous contractor who was to fully execute the system was unable to do so for several financial reasons. “The contractor cited several financial constraints. There were also several other administrative and technical reasons for us to not go ahead with the same contractor for the implementation of the system.” The official refused to explain what he meant by “administrative and technical” reasons.

Another official associated with the implementation, said, “We have successfully carried out experiments of the GPS systems in more than 140 buses at three bus depots. The contractor who was to originally implement it has been unable to do so because of his financial inability. We will club two separate contracts concerning GPS and award it to a single party. A new contractor should be on board soon,” the official said.