KSRTC refutes misinformation on Priyadarshini free travel scheme in city

Thiruvananthapuram: KSRTC clarified that Priyadarshini free travel scheme announced by govt applies only to ordinary bus services and not to City Fast services in Thiruvananthapuram. In an official statement, KSRTC said there was no ambiguity regarding the classification of ordinary and City Fast services operating in Thiruvananthapuram city and district.

According to corporation, 384 City Fast buses operate through the city, while 687 ordinary services are currently running across the district. KSRTC explained that City Fast buses have fewer stops than ordinary services, enabling passengers to reach their destinations quickly. Since City Fast services fall under a separate fare category, they are not covered under Priyadarshini scheme. To help passengers easily identify eligible services, the corporation placed clear stickers on the front and near the entrance doors of both ordinary buses covered under the scheme and City Fast buses that are excluded from it.

Officials said the measure was intended to prevent confusion among women passengers availing the free travel benefit. The corporation pointed out that Thiruvananthapuram is the only major urban centre in the state where City Fast services operate extensively alongside ordinary services. As per a govt notification issued on April 30, 2022, the minimum fare for City Fast services is Rs 12, with a rate of Rs 1.03 per km.

In contrast, ordinary city services charge a minimum fare of Rs 10 and Rs 1 per km. KSRTC said detailed surveys and assessments had been conducted before the launch of Priyadarshini scheme to clearly distinguish between ordinary and City Fast services. In addition to destination boards, relevant information was prominently displayed on the buses. Rejecting claims that ordinary services were converted into City Fast buses to deny passengers the benefit of the scheme, KSRTC said the reports being circulated were baseless and urged the public to rely on official information.