CM Sarma Calls for Modernisation, Diversification of ASTC and Warehousing CorporationChief Minister Pushes for Asset Optimisation, Revenue Growth and Upgradation of Warehouses

Dalim Phukan.
Hills Live News, Guwahati, Sept 4: Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday reviewed the functioning of the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) and the Assam State Warehousing Corporation (ASWC) and called for modernisation, diversification, better utilisation of assets and enhanced revenue generation to make the two State-run organisations more efficient and financially sustainable.
During the review of ASTC at Lok Sewa Bhawan, the Chief Minister assessed the Corporation’s manpower strength, fleet, assets, their utilisation, financial position, revenue streams and future initiatives for strengthening and modernising the organisation.
Dr. Sarma directed ASTC authorities to explore new avenues of business and diversify its activities to improve its financial position and make the Corporation more self-sustaining.
He stressed the need to monetise existing assets while retaining ownership with ASTC and expand corporate business opportunities. The Corporation was also asked to explore possibilities of providing its fleet and transport services to corporate houses and other institutions.
The Chief Minister further called for more efficient utilisation of existing resources and identification of innovative revenue-generating avenues to strengthen ASTC’s long-term financial sustainability.
Observing that ASTC has considerable potential to emerge as a modern, efficient and financially sustainable public transport organisation, Sarma urged the Corporation to innovate, diversify and make better use of its existing strengths.
Transport Minister Charan Boro was present at the meeting.
Focus on Modern Warehousing Infrastructure
In a separate meeting at Lok Sewa Bhawan, Dr. Sarma reviewed the functioning of the Assam State Warehousing Corporation and took stock of its warehousing infrastructure and the condition of godowns across the State.
The Chief Minister reviewed the Corporation’s existing warehousing and cold-storage capacity, the condition and utilisation of godowns, infrastructure gaps, operational challenges and the scope for improving its services.
The Corporation currently has a total warehousing capacity of 2.61 lakh metric tonnes across Assam.
Sarma directed the authorities to undertake necessary renovation and upgradation of godowns and cold-storage facilities, with emphasis on increasing capacity, improving efficiency and infrastructure quality, and ensuring compliance with modern warehousing standards.
The Chief Minister said that a strong and modern warehousing network is essential for protecting agricultural produce, reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening the State’s supply-chain infrastructure.
He called for focused efforts to make the Corporation’s infrastructure more competitive and responsive to emerging requirements and assured the organisation of necessary government support in resolving its issues.
Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. K.K. Dwivedi and other senior officials of ASTC and ASWC were present at the meetings.