Kottayam, 08 July (H.S.): Normal life was disrupted across Kottayam, Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Kollam on Wednesday after private bus operators launched an indefinite strike, demanding government intervention over the financial impact of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation’s (KSRTC) free travel scheme for women.

The strike, organised by the Private Bus Operators Association, has affected thousands of daily commuters, including office-goers, students and other passengers who rely heavily on private buses for their routine travel. With a large number of private buses staying off the roads, commuters were forced to depend on KSRTC services and other available modes of transport, leading to overcrowding and delays on several routes.

Private bus operators contend that the government's decision to provide free travel for women in KSRTC ordinary buses has resulted in a sharp decline in passenger numbers on private services. According to the association, the shift of women passengers to KSRTC buses has significantly reduced daily collections, making it increasingly difficult for private operators to meet operational expenses, including fuel costs, staff wages and vehicle maintenance.

The operators argue that many private bus owners are now struggling to sustain their services and have urged the state government to address what they describe as an uneven playing field between public and private transport providers.

As part of their demands, the association has called on the government to either extend the women’s free travel scheme to private buses or introduce a compensation package to offset the revenue losses suffered by operators. They maintain that unless corrective measures are taken, the financial viability of private bus services will remain under serious threat.

To press their demands, the association has planned protest marches and dharnas in front of district collectorates in the four affected districts. The operators have indicated that the agitation will continue until the government initiates meaningful discussions and announces measures to address their concerns.

The strike is expected to continue affecting public transport services unless a settlement is reached between the government and the private bus operators.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman