5000 new buses without spending a penny; KSRTC mulls new move

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Transport Department prepared a plan to bring 5,000 new buses for KSRTC without ever spending a penny from the coffers.

The buses will be provided by corporate institutions, private companies, individuals and private groups. The cost of one does not have to be paid in full by any one institution or individual. Committees comprising public representatives will work for this.

Companies can put their advertisements inside and outside the bus. The interest of the companies will also be considered in matters, including the design of the bus. Individuals can use the bus to preserve the memory of their loved ones. The names and pictures of their loved ones can be put on the bus.

The buses will run as regular or super class services as per the preference of the bus providers. The government estimates that this will further expand the free travel scheme for women. The Transport Department estimates that the target of 5,000 buses can be achieved within 5 years.

The price of a new diesel bus ranges from Rs 36 lakh to Rs 43 lakh. Even at Rs 30 lakh, 5,000 buses will cost Rs 1,500 crore. The proposed project, if yielded positive results, will overhaul the crisis-stricken department.

It is estimated that KSRTC will lose an average of Rs two crore per day in revenue by implementing the free women's travel scheme only in ordinary buses. To make up for this loss, advertisements will be used in buses. AED shields will be installed inside every bus, and advertisements will be displayed. Advertisements are also being planned to be placed behind each seat.