SHILLONG — As the gears of the Meghalaya Transport Corporation (MTC) appear to have ground to a halt, Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has stepped forward to address the growing concerns of the student community, signaling a major shift toward the popular STEMS bus service.
While the sudden stoppage of MTC services has left many scratching their heads, the Minister today offered a glimpse into the government’s strategy to keep the city moving.
Addressing the elephant in the room—the sudden suspension of MTC bus operations—Minister Rymbui remained cautious. He admitted that the government is still reviewing the internal reports regarding why the service was pulled.
“Until and unless I know the exact reason, it is difficult for me to comment,” the Minister stated. “We have not checked that report yet as to why the MTC has stopped.
STEMS to the Rescue?
While MTC’s future hangs in the balance, the Minister was full of praise for the Sustainable Transport and Efficiency Mobility Society (STEMS) buses. Launched by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma two years ago, these buses have become a lifeline for students navigating Shillong’s notorious traffic.
Traffic Tamer: The Minister emphasized that the STEMS initiative is key to the government’s push for carpooling, aiming to slash traffic congestion during peak hours.
Student First: “I know it is very helpful,” Rymbui noted, expressing gratitude to the CM for the initiative. “The government will surely increase the numbers.”
The Minister hinted that a “proper plan” is in motion to tackle the transportation gap left by MTC. The focus is shifting away from traditional models toward the more efficient STEMS network, which is designed specifically to serve the student community and public needs.
Minister Rymbui reassured the public that the government’s primary duty is to ensure smooth transit for its citizens. If the STEMS model continues to prove its worth, Shillong residents can expect to see a significant surge in the number of these bright buses on the road very soon.
“It is the duty of the government to serve the public,” the Minister said. “We will ensure that the student community is not affected.”
