Mangaluru: Govt First Grade College at Jidekallu in Puttur has managed to reverse its admission fortunes, but inadequate KSRTC bus services threaten to undermine its success. A free-admission campaign, conducted for the second consecutive year, has helped increase the college’s student strength to 150. The institution recorded 48 fresh admissions this year.Before launching the initiative last year, the college had only 36 students across BA and BCom. To boost enrolment, it offered free admission to the first 100 students. Encouraged by the response, college continued the campaign this year. However, commuting has become a daily challenge for many students, particularly girls, travelling from distant places. Students said the college needs four additional bus trips. Many commute from Kasaragod and Perla in Kerala, and from Manchi and Konaje, while some must walk six to seven kms to reach their homes or the nearest bus stop.“Since the college campaigned extensively, many students joined this year. We approached the Puttur MLA seeking better bus connectivity. Last year, the principal spoke to KSRTC officials, following which, bus timings were adjusted to prevent hardship to students. The principal has made similar efforts this year, but we are yet to receive a response,” students said.With classes already underway, the lack of conveniently timed services is forcing students to leave home early and return late. They said the existing KSRTC buses is at 9 am and 4.30 pm. Additional trips around 8.50 am and 9 am, and at 3.45 pm and 4.00 pm, would make a significant difference, they added.KSRTC Puttur divisional controller Sriharibabu said the division has received a request for additional bus services. However, it is facing a shortage of around 40 to 50 buses and 100 crew members. “Once additional buses and crew are deployed, a survey will be conducted and services introduced wherever required. This route will be considered on priority,” he said.
