The UDF government’s announcement of free bus travel for women on KSRTC buses has sparked major political and social discussions across Kerala. Scheduled to be implemented from June 15, the scheme aims to provide free travel to women on all KSRTC services. However, a new study report submitted by the Transport Secretary reveals alarming financial realities.

According to the report, which analyzed three months of travel data using the newly implemented gender-based ticketing system, women constitute approximately 65% of KSRTC’s daily 29 lakh passengers. If free travel is extended to all services including Ordinary, Fast Passenger, Superfast, and Premium buses, KSRTC could face a loss of Rs 112 crore in just three months, translating to an annual burden of around Rs 450 crore.

The report outlines several scenarios:

• Free travel limited to Ordinary buses only: Rs 57 crore loss in three months
• Including city Fast buses: Rs 65 crore loss
• Including Superfast services: Rs 90 crore loss

While similar schemes in Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu have been successful, KSRTC is already struggling with pension dues, employee salaries, diesel arrears, and loan repayments. The Transport Secretary’s report recommends phased implementation, starting with Ordinary buses only, and suggests targeted free travel via smart cards for economically backward women, lottery workers, domestic help, and female students.

The state government must balance social reform with financial prudence to ensure KSRTC’s survival while empowering women. The upcoming cabinet meeting will be crucial in deciding the final shape of the scheme.