Struggling Finances: Assam State Transport Corporation Faces Mounting Losses

The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) is grappling with financial challenges as its losses in the financial year 2022–23 reached Rs 83 crore. With a month left in FY 2023–24, the losses are anticipated to rise further. The ASTC’s revenue, including operating and non-operating sources, has seen fluctuations. In 2022–23, operating revenue was Rs 104.15 crore, and non-operating revenue was Rs 20.69 crore. As of January 2023–24, operating revenue stood at Rs 77.17 crore, and non-operating revenue was Rs 15 crore. The corporation, operational since 1970, currently manages 1121 of its own buses, with 127 not in operation. Despite recent additions of 100 ‘green’ electric buses in Guwahati, the ASTC’s financial trajectory remains uncertain. The corporation, with 904 regular staff and 2150 contractual employees, faces the challenge of reversing its fortunes amid mounting losses.