Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the NLTA that Bel Air and Trou d'Eau Douce are situated approximately four kilometres apart and there is presently no direct bus service operating along the corridor. I am further informed that connectivity between the two localities is currently ensured by the traveling in two legs that is, from Bel Air to Bramsthan and from Bramsthan to Trou d'Eau Douce along route 16 or 18 and along route 55 respectively with services operating at an average frequency of 30 minutes on each leg. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, with regard to part (a) of the question, I am informed by the NLTA that the introduction of a new dedicated bus route is not being envisaged at this stage in view of the relatively low direct passenger demand between these two localities. I am made to understand that the predominant travel pattern of residents from both Bel Air and Trou d'Eau Douce is oriented towards Central Flacq which remains the main economic and service hub of the region. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, as regards part (b) of the question, the extension of route 55 is not being considered due to the relatively low passenger demand considerations. The NLTA is currently examining service optimisation measures including the possible extension of existing route 56, Grand River South East to Flacq, operated by the NTC to serve Trou d'Eau Douce via La Lucie Roy. This proposal will provide direct connectivity while ensuring more efficient utilisation of available resources. Implementation of this proposal will however be the subject of consultations with the NTC and a road test to ascertain operational feasibility including the availability of a suitable turning radius. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, as regards part (c) of the question, I am informed that there are currently 56 licensed taxis operating from Trou d'Eau Douce and 76 from Bel Air. The present level of taxi services is considered more than adequate by the NLTA to meet existing demand for taxi services based on population density. Some of these taxis operate as taxi train to provide direct services between Bel Air and Trou d'Eau Douce and complement for the present lack of buses on the basis of separate fares as provided under the law, that is, section 103(4) of the Road Traffic Act. Consequently, the issue of additional bus service, taxi licenses is not being envisaged. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I wish to remind the hon. Member that a meeting was held with the hon. Dr. Ramtohul and hon. Dr. Saumtally on 26 January 2026, that is, some four months ago following their request in my office. The hon. Baboolall was not able to attend because he was traveling to Rodrigues and that, at a material time. During the meeting, the transport challenges faced by the residents of Trou d'Eau Douce and Bel Air amongst others were discussed. Following those discussions, the NLTA has been actively exploring various avenues to enhance bus service delivery in the regions. Our commitment to the inhabitants is evidenced by the proposed extension of route 56, like I explained earlier, to serve Trou d'Eau Douce. I am told that the NLTA is in discussions with the NTC for that purpose and a road test will be held soon. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I can reassure the hon. Member that my Ministry, together with the NLTA, will continue to maintain close monitoring of transport needs across all regions. Should there be any significant evolution in demand patterns, appropriate adjustments will be considered in consultation with stakeholders to ensure that public transport provision remains responsive, efficient and sustainable.

No. Okay. The hon. Second Member for Flacq and Bon Accueil! MRS R. A. AND MR A. M – FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMISSION DIRECTORS – COMPLAINTS & INVESTIGATION