Kerala Private Bus Operators Announce Protest Over Revenue Loss Concerns

Thiruvananthapuram: Private bus operators in Keralam have announced a protest campaign, demanding measures to protect the private bus industry. The Bus Operators Federation said it will organise a relay protest in front of the Secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram from June 20 to June 25.

According to the federation, private operators have been facing severe financial pressure following the introduction of the KSRTC's free travel scheme for women. Bus owners argue that the policy has significantly reduced passenger numbers on private routes.

As part of the protest, bus owners from three districts will participate on June 20 and June 25. Representatives from two districts each day will participate between June 21 and June 24

The federation claimed that since June 15, after the launch of Priyadarshini bus services, private operators on affected routes have struggled to generate even enough revenue to cover fuel expenses.

Bus owners said continuing operations under the current conditions has become increasingly difficult.

The federation also announced that a joint meeting of bus owners and worker unions will be held to plan the next phase of agitation, including the possibility of a complete suspension of services.

Trade unions including CITU and BMS are expected to participate in the meeting scheduled in Thiruvananthapuram.

The decision was announced after a meeting of the federation’s central committee chaired by President K K Thomas. General Secretary Hamsa Erikkunnan, Treasurer M S Premkumar, and office-bearers including Sharanya Manoj and K. Sathyan also attended.