Private bus operators express concern over free travel for women on KSRTC

Private bus operators have expressed concerns over the potential impact on their business due to the State government’s new scheme for free travel for women on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses.

The Kerala State Private Bus Operators’ Federation, at a press conference here on Wednesday, warned that private buses could stop plying altogether, affecting the livelihoods of thousands of owners and workers.

Women constitute nearly 60% of private bus passengers. If women commuters shifted to KSRTC buses, the revenue of private bus operators could slash by half, federation office-bearers said.

Private buses outnumbered KSRTC buses by nearly three times. While private bus operators had to bear heavy taxes, permit fees, and penalties even as they contributed a good share of the transport tax revenue, the KSRTC continued to operate despite mounting losses owing to government support. Rising fuel prices had worsened the crisis. Even with fare hikes, the current situation made it difficult to continue services.

Calling for discussions with the government before June 15, the federation urged it to study the plight of the private bus operators and take necessary measures to protect the sector.