50.10 per cent increase in passenger numbers; Priyadarshini 'support' for KSRTC

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Since the launch of the popular 'Priyadarshini' scheme, KSRTC ordinary services saw a 50.10 per cent increase in the total number of passengers. This is according to a report prepared by an expert committee headed by former Fire Force Chief K. Padmakumar.

The total ordinary journeys from June 15 to July 14, 2025 were 3.83 crore. However, the number of journeys from June 15 to July 14, 2026, after the scheme was implemented, increased to 5.75 crore. The report says that this figure is based on the total number of journeys made or tickets issued.

Of the total ordinary journeys, 3.81 crore (66.24%) are free journeys under the Priyadarshini scheme. The remaining 1.94 crore (33.76%) are ticketed. The total ticket value of the 30-day free journeys is Rs 81.29 crore. The average value of a free ride was Rs. 21.33. The highest average value was recorded in Malappuram - Rs. 31.80.

Although the total number of ordinary passengers increased by 50.10%, there was no significant change in the distance covered by KSRTC buses. In 2025, the ordinary service during this period was 1.82 crore km, but in 2026 it increased only to 1.95 crore.