CM to take final decision on free travel for women in KSRTC buses

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The final decision on providing free travel for women in Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses has been left to the chief minister. After discussions at various levels based on reports submitted by KSRTC, the transport department has referred the matter to the chief minister for a final decision. The government will decide how the scheme should be implemented and whether any eligibility criteria or restrictions are needed.

The report submitted by KSRTC to the transport department details the cost of implementing the scheme on each bus. It is estimated that 10 to 12 lakh women travel on KSRTC buses every day. It is expected that more women will travel with the implementation of the scheme.

Reports say that if free travel is allowed on all KSRTC buses, there will be a loss of Rs 112 crore per month. The loss for three months is estimated to be Rs 57 crore if it is implemented only on ordinary buses, Rs 65 crore if implemented on city fast and ordinary buses, and Rs 90 crore if executed on ordinary, fast passenger and super-fast buses. In addition to the financial assistance for the salaries and pensions of the employees, the government will have to give this amount to KSRTC.

Therefore, the chief minister will take a final decision on free travel after studying and discussing the report of the transport department in detail. As announced earlier, the government aims to implement the scheme by June 15. It is reported that the final decision in this regard may be taken in the next cabinet meet.