KSRTC rolls out major reforms

In a move to modernise public transport, Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar has announced a series of reforms for the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new bus terminal at Kottarakkara, the Minister revealed that the corporation is shifting toward more passenger-centric services. Among the primary highlights is the introduction of bottled drinking water priced at a subsidised rate of ₹13 across KSRTC buses.

Another change is the ‘Stop on Request’ facility for long-distance services. Through the KSRTC Chalo App, passengers can now request to be dropped at their preferred locations, even if they are not scheduled stops, by paying an additional charge of ₹20. Furthermore, the corporation is implementing a pricing software for long-distance bookings during festival seasons, which will adjust ticket rates based on demand, similar to airline and private bus booking systems. The Minister also added that more mini-bus services will be launched to improve connectivity.

Presiding over the function, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal stated that the upcoming Kottarakkara bus terminal will become a landmark for the region. The project, estimated at ₹18.10 crore, is being funded through MLA’s Asset Development Fund and Plan Fund. Beyond the terminal, funds have been allocated for a new garage. “Similar projects will soon commence for major hubs in Vizhinjam and Ernakulam,” he said.

He added that the construction of a 1,47,000-square-foot IT park capable of accommodating 1,500 employees will commence shortly. Mr. Balagopal also flagged off a new bus service operating on the Nellikkunnam-Chepra-Ummannoor-Valakam route at the event.