THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Transport Department has halted the purchase of electric buses and initiated the acquisition of diesel buses for KSRTC. Talks with Tata, Ashok Leyland, and Icer companies have begun following Minister KB Ganesh Kumar's instructions. Discussions occurred during Transport Secretary and KSRTC Chief Biju Prabhakar's visit to Australia for a public transport event.

Due to Ganeshkumar's objection, tenders for both e-bus and 50 diesel buses were canceled. In May, the government approved a Rs 814 crore bus purchase, but only Rs 50 crore was sanctioned for electric buses. Despite KIIFB's attempt to invite tenders for 150 electric buses and 284 diesel buses, KSRTC purchased 131 diesel buses using plan funds.

Minister Ganesh Kumar aims to secure previously allocated KIIFB funds and will discuss with Finance Minister KN Balagopal. The minister confirmed allegations regarding spare parts and e-bus deals, responding to claims by Transport Workers Federation (TDF) working president M. Vincent MLA, supported by pro-Congress organizations. No public statements have been issued by governing unions or BMS.