KOCHI: The city-based private bus operators in tie up with the Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) and the district administration has initiated a 12-day programme ‘Onavandi’ with an aim to lend a helping hand to flood victims among others.
A total of 150 buses from seven co-operative societies formed by private bus operators will be designated as ‘Onavandies’ during the Onam festive days, starting September 2.
“Each bus is fitted with a charity box. The passengers can donate small denominations that they receive as balance amount in the boxes. The amount collected daily will be displayed through ‘Passenger Information system in the buses,” said K.B. Suneer, general secretary of Ernakulam District Private Bus Operators Association.
“The total sum collected as part of ‘Baaki Venda’ campaign will be handed over to flood victims through district administration to help them come back to normal life after the heavy loss inflicted by recent floods in northern districts,” Mr Suneer, said.
The initiative comes after a similar drive taken up by a private bus owner realized Rs 11,000 in three days. “The charity box was installed for benefit of those passengers who want to help floods victims but don’t have resources and time to directly involve in flood relief activities,” said Ramapadiyar G, owner of ‘Sikha’, the bus operating in the Mattancherry-Kumbalangi route.
A number of programmes including lucky draw and photography competitions for the travelling public and the bus crew will be held as part of the ‘Onavandi’ initiative.
“Hundred lucky passengers will be selected through lucky-draws and will be presented with prizes. Best conductors and drivers will be selected on the basis of a criteria,”he said.
