( 1 ) THESE appeals are directed against the common judgment and award dated 31-12-2001 passed in M. V. C. No. 1420 of 1994 on the file of the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal and Additional judge (SCCH-20), Mayo Hall Unit, Bangalore (for short, 'the MACT) whereby it has awarded a sum of Rs. 15,36,460/- (Rupees fifteen lakhs thirty-six thousand four hundred and sixty) as compensation with costs and interest at 9% per annum from the date of petition till the date of realisation.

( 2 ) THE Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation which is the owner of the BTS bus bearing Registration No. MEF 778 involved in the accident, being aggrieved by the above judgment and award has filed M. F. A. No. 359 of 2002 calling in question the validity of the award mainly on the ground that the quantum of compensation awarded by the MACT is highly excessive and has sought for reducing the same. The claimant in M. V. C. No. 1420 of 1994 has also filed M. F. A. No. 817 of 2002 questioning the correctness of the award passed by the MACT and sought for enhancement of compensation. The claimant has contended that the MACT has not awarded adequate and just compensation under various head