Private bus operators in Kerala are concerned about the state's new free travel scheme for women on KSRTC buses, warning it could impact their survival. They claim a significant drop in women passengers and are seeking government assistance.
The new free travel scheme for women in Kerala has created a potential crisis for the private bus industry, highlighting the economic impact of government welfare initiatives on private businesses and raising questions about public transport policy and stakeholder consultation.
Private bus operators in Kerala have voiced strong concerns regarding the state's recently launched 'Priyadarshini' scheme, which offers free travel to women and transgender individuals on ordinary KSRTC buses. Representatives of private bus organizations stated that the scheme was implemented without prior consultation and warned of severe repercussions for their industry's survival.
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.
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