‘Priyadarshini, a big success, women’s income increased’; govt ready to help private buses, says C P John

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Priyadarshini free travel scheme implemented by the UDF Government in the state, has been a big success, said Transport Minister C P John. The scheme has increased the annual income of women by around Rs 2000, he added. While the amount may appear small when heard, the minister said it has made a significant difference in the lives of many women.

‘As part of this project, private bus operators in some areas have faced difficulties. There are no private buses in Neyyattinkara taluk and so there is no issue there. Similarly, there are only a very few KSRTC buses in Malappuram. The issue arises when two buses run together on a route. The issue is in routes where KSRTC ordinary and private buses operate services together.

I have held discussions with representatives of private bus. Services can be rescheduled in a way that avoids inconvenience to anyone. We are not trying to defeat or destroy the private bus sector. We will explore every possible way to support them. We will also look at ways for private buses to generate revenue beyond ticket collections. For example, they can increase earnings through advertisement. The government will extend all possible support to the private bus sector,’ he said.