As Kerala moves closer to implementing free bus travel for women in Kerala State Road Transport Corporation buses, private bus operators have voiced strong opposition to the proposal, urging the incoming United Democratic Front government to reconsider the plan or introduce a relief package for the private sector.
Addressing the media, T Gopinathan, general secretary of the All Kerala Bus Operators Organisation, warned that the scheme could severely impact private bus operations across the state. He said thousands of families dependent on the industry could face financial uncertainty if the project is implemented without protective measures.
Free travel for women in KSRTC buses was among the five key welfare promises highlighted in the UDF’s election manifesto. Following the alliance’s landslide victory in the Assembly elections, KSRTC recently introduced “gender ticketing” in buses to study the average number of women passengers using the service before rolling out the scheme.
In a brief update carried by Gold 101.3FM UAE’s No 1 radio station, the proposal has sparked wide debate, with supporters welcoming the welfare initiative while private operators continue to raise concerns over its long-term impact on Kerala’s transport sector.
Private bus operators alleged that the decision was taken without proper consultation with stakeholders. According to them, concerns regarding the proposal had already been raised during the pre-election Puthuyuga Yatra led by former Opposition leader V D Satheesan.
“The government’s decision is completely one-sided. Such a move could eventually weaken Kerala’s overall public transport system. If women passengers shift entirely to KSRTC services, private buses may be reduced mainly to student transport services,” Gopinathan said.
He further stressed that the government should initiate discussions with private bus operators before implementing the project and consider a financial support package to ensure the survival of the sector.
Meanwhile, the new UDF government is yet to officially assume office, with discussions over the chief ministerial candidate still continuing behind the scenes
