On 27 October 2026, private bus operators in Kerala began an indefinite hunger strike outside the state Secretariat. The protest targets the Priyadarshini free travel scheme and seeks safeguards for the private bus sector.
Key Developments
- Strike launched by Rijas A.J., national vice‑president of the BCOCI, and by state leaders of the KBOF.
- Demands include implementation of the Padmakumar Commission recommendations.
- Call for an increase in student ticket fares and a revision of the base bus fare.
- Request for timely renewal of permits for long‑distance buses (>140 km) and withdrawal of the decision to hand over these routes to the KSRTC.
- Appeal to the RTO to provide services without hindrance.
Important Facts
The federation argues that the free travel scheme has eroded the women‑passenger base on routes where KSRTC enjoys a monopoly. Additionally, an ₹8 per litre increase in diesel prices and rising spare‑part costs have deepened the financial strain on private operators.
Exam Relevance
This protest highlights the clash between welfare schemes and private sector viability, a recurring theme in GS Paper III (Economy). Understanding the role of bodies like the RTO and the impact of price shocks (diesel) is essential for questions on transport policy, public‑private partnership, and fiscal implications of subsidy programmes.
Way Forward
Policymakers need to balance social objectives of the free travel scheme with the financial health of private operators. Possible steps include:
- Revisiting fare structures to ensure cost‑recovery for private buses.
- Accelerating permit renewal processes through the RTO.
- Implementing the Padmakumar Commission recommendations promptly.
- Considering targeted subsidies or tax relief for diesel‑dependent operators.
Addressing these issues can prevent further disruptions in Kerala’s transport network and safeguard employment in the private bus sector.