KSRTC to Offer 50% Low-Fare Tickets Under Dynamic Pricing

Thiruvananthapuram: KSRTC is set to introduce dynamic pricing on its inter-state services as part of efforts to compete with private luxury buses. The KSRTC Director Board has approved the new system, under which 50 percent of the tickets will be offered at reduced rates. The next 40 percent will be sold at the existing fare, while the remaining 10 percent will be priced higher based on demand.

The new structure will apply to premium services operating to Bengaluru, Chennai, Mysuru, Coimbatore, Mangaluru and Manipal(Udupi). On most days—except Fridays and Sundays—many of these buses run with low passenger numbers. Private operators typically reduce fares during such periods and sharply increase ticket prices when demand rises, sometimes doubling the rate. KSRTC has also seen a drop in passengers on the Ernakulam–Bengaluru route after the launch of the Vande Bharat Express.

‘Bus on Demand’ Service Being Considered

KSRTC is also exploring the introduction of a ‘Bus on Demand’ facility for services from the Fast Passenger category and above. This would allow passengers to alight at locations that are not designated stops, by paying an additional fee. The charges will vary depending on the class of the bus. KSRTC believes that extending this facility during daytime services on Deluxe and Superfast buses will bring added convenience to passengers.