Kerala private bus operators protest free women's travel scheme

Hamsa, General Secretary of the Private Bus Operators Federation, reported a significant decline in women passengers on private buses since the scheme's inception on Monday. He claimed that approximately 75% of private buses might be forced off the roads by June 30 due to a sharp drop in revenue, making it difficult to cover fuel expenses and salaries.

Operators are calling for substantial government assistance, comparable to the support provided to KSRTC, arguing that measures like road tax concessions or minor fuel subsidies would be insufficient. A meeting was scheduled for private bus operators to finalize their demands and suggestions to be presented to the government.

The 'Priyadarshini' scheme, a key election promise of the Congress-led UDF government, aims to enhance mobility, improve access to education and employment, and reduce travel expenses for women and transgender persons. The government has indicated that steps would be taken to address the concerns raised by the private bus sector.