Private bus owners in Kerala have come out in strong protest against the state government’s decision to allow free travel for women on KSRTC buses starting June 15.

The announcement, made by the Chief Minister, has sparked concerns among private bus operators who argue that the move will cripple the private bus sector. They claim that passengers will shift to KSRTC buses if women can travel for free, leaving private buses with significantly reduced ridership and revenue.

The bus owners have stated that the government did not consult them before making the decision. They are demanding that the government hear their concerns and provide relief measures, including reductions in tax and permit fees.

A delegation of private bus owners has announced plans to meet the Chief Minister and the Transport Minister to discuss their grievances. They are seeking policy interventions that take the private bus sector into account alongside the government’s welfare schemes.

The free travel initiative for women is part of the state government’s efforts to improve public transport accessibility and reduce the financial burden on women. However, the private bus owners argue that without a comprehensive policy covering both public and private transport, the move could destabilize the entire bus transport ecosystem in Kerala.