Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has clarified that the Priyadarshini free travel scheme, announced by the state government, applies exclusively to ordinary bus services and does not cover City Fast services operating in Thiruvananthapuram. In an official statement, KSRTC emphasized that there is no ambiguity regarding the classification of ordinary and City Fast services within the city and district.
Details of Bus Services
According to the corporation, 384 City Fast buses operate through the city, while 687 ordinary services are currently running across the district. KSRTC explained that City Fast buses have fewer stops compared to ordinary services, enabling passengers to reach their destinations more quickly. Since City Fast services fall under a separate fare category, they are not covered under the Priyadarshini scheme.
Identification Measures
To help passengers easily identify eligible services, the corporation has placed clear stickers on the front and near the entrance doors of both ordinary buses covered under the scheme and City Fast buses that are excluded from it. Officials stated that this measure was intended to prevent confusion among women passengers availing the free travel benefit.
Operational Context
The corporation pointed out that Thiruvananthapuram is the only major urban center in the state where City Fast services operate extensively alongside ordinary services. As per a government notification issued on April 30, 2022, the minimum fare for City Fast services is Rs 12, with a rate of Rs 1.03 per km. In contrast, ordinary city services charge a minimum fare of Rs 10 and Rs 1 per km.
Surveys and Assessments
KSRTC said that detailed surveys and assessments had been conducted before the launch of the Priyadarshini scheme to clearly distinguish between ordinary and City Fast services. In addition to destination boards, relevant information was prominently displayed on the buses.
Rejection of Claims
Rejecting claims that ordinary services were converted into City Fast buses to deny passengers the benefit of the scheme, KSRTC said that the reports being circulated were baseless and urged the public to rely on official information. Stay updated with the latest Thiruvananthapuram news.
