GUWAHATI: Now anyone nursing a grievance against Assam State Transport Service (ASTC) can lodge a complaint by dialling toll-free number 18003453986 at any time of the day. If the line does not work, one can take to ASTC 's Facebook page and Twitter handle or send a WhatsApp on 9854006002, 9854006003 and 9854006004.State transport minister Chandra Mohan Patowary on Wednesday inaugurated an ASTC control room that will monitor complaints 24X7. "The control room will ensure prompt action in case of complaints," he said.Besides offering services like e-ticketing, GPS and GIS-based tracking of buses and automated SMS, ASTC will soon take steps to ensure security of women passengers across Assam "ASTC will also sell food and water on board buses. ASTC buses will get LED screens, sound systems and microphones in the driver's console to provide a comfortable travel experience," managing director Anand Prakash Tiwari said.The transport service authority has also begun repairing 'unfit' buses in its fleet. Children below five can travel for free on ASTC buses.

Source: Times of India October 20, 2016 03:33 UTC