Wando-gun Wins Excellence Award at Active Administration Competition

'Jeonnam's First Free Operation of Intra-County Buses'

Wando-gun, Jeollanam-do received an institutional commendation (Excellence Award) for its case of "Jeonnam's first free bus operation" at the "2023 Second Half Active Administration Best Practice Competition" hosted by Jeollanam-do.

According to the county on the 29th, to alleviate transportation inconveniences for residents such as seniors who do not drive and students, they implemented the "free intra-county bus policy," which is the first in Jeonnam and the second nationwide.

Free bus service within the county began last September.
[Photo by Wando-gun]

The background for implementing the policy was that although loss compensation was selectively provided only for the 100-won bus fare for those aged 65 and over and youth, it was noted that by investing an additional 300 million won, any county resident could use the intra-county bus for free.

The related departments reviewed cases from other local governments, examined relevant laws, gathered opinions from bus transportation companies, enacted an ordinance in June 2023, and after consultations with the Ministry of Health and Welfare and social security systems, the policy was implemented.

The free intra-county bus operation has improved transportation convenience and eased economic burdens, receiving favorable reviews from county residents.

County Governor Shin Woo-cheol said, "We will continue to spread a culture of active administration and do our best to provide administrative services that residents can feel."

Meanwhile, Wando-gun received the Encouragement Award at the first half Active Administration Best Practice Competition and earned the honor of winning again in the second half (Excellence Award).

Wando = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Choi Kyung-pil just8440@asiae.co.kr