Kolkata: Concerns over rising operational uncertainties and escalating fuel costs have prompted private transport operators in West Bengal to urgently call for state intervention to revive the sector, following the recent political transition in the state. The Joint Forum of Transport Operators (JFTO), an umbrella body representing five major transport associations, has formally approached Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, seeking an immediate meeting at Nabanna to discuss the rapidly destabilising transport ecosystem.
JFTO's Appeal to the Chief Minister
In a letter to the Chief Minister, the JFTO stated, "As you are well aware, the transport sector serves as the lifeline of West Bengal's economy and daily public life. The JFTO, representing a unified voice of various stakeholders across private buses, mini-buses, app cabs, and school buses in the state, has always been committed to ensuring smooth, affordable, and efficient mobility for our citizens. The transport industry is currently navigating a crucial transitional phase. We have formulated a set of constructive proposals aimed at improving commuter safety and ensuring the financial sustainability of transport operators. We believe that a collaborative approach between the government and transport operators can significantly elevate the quality of public transport in Bengal." The letter also requested permission to meet the Chief Minister.
Impact of Free Travel for Women on State Buses
The move comes close on the heels of the newly formed government introducing free travel for women on state-run buses from June 1. This measure has fuelled intense anxiety among private operators, who fear it will lead to severe market distortion and heavy financial losses. Private operators worry that the policy could divert passengers away from their services, exacerbating their already strained financial situation.
Composition of JFTO and Financial Concerns
The JFTO includes the All Bengal Bus Minibus Coordination Committee, the Online Cab Operators Guild, the City Suburban Bus Service, the North Bengal Passengers Transport Owners Coordination Committee, and the Pool Car Owners Welfare Association. In their letter to the Chief Minister, the operators emphasised that the passenger transport sector is one of the largest revenue-generating engines for the state exchequer. The forum told TOI that a sharp and continuous escalation in petrol and diesel prices has severely eroded profit margins, making the independent upkeep of private fleets increasingly unviable without direct state subsidies or financial aid.
Route Rationalisation and Regulatory Framework
Furthermore, the operators noted that the change in the state administration has opened scope for discussions regarding route rationalisation, app-based cab regulations, and the management of school pool car operations. Stressing that private transport requires a clear parallel roadmap to survive alongside expanded public services, the forum has urged the government to collaborate on policy decisions. Nabanna is yet to issue a formal response to the operators' request.
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