Free Bus Ride Protest in Kerala Private Buses

[Anu]

In Kerala, private bus operators in the Angamaly-Koratty route launched an unusual protest by offering completely free rides exclusively to male passengers, students, and migrant workers. This unique action, conducted by the "Best Way" bus, aimed to highlight the severe financial crisis faced by private transport operators. The crisis escalated following the implementation of the government's Priyadarshini scheme, which impacted daily collections significantly. Bus owners report daily losses ranging from ₹1000 to ₹3000 per vehicle. Through this creative demonstration, the operators seek immediate government intervention, fare restructuring, and financial support to prevent the total collapse of the private bus sector, which serves millions of daily commuters across Kerala state.