Kerala private bus operators withdraw planned Tuesday strike after talks
Transport Minister C P John met with bus associations in Thiruvananthapuram to resolve disputes regarding the Priyadarshini free travel scheme.
Private bus operators in Kerala have called off a statewide strike scheduled to begin on Tuesday, November 3. According to reports from Urban Acres, The Hindu and Mathrubhumi, the decision followed Monday night discussions between Transport Minister C P John and a joint action committee in Thiruvananthapuram.
The strike was organised by several groups, including the All Kerala Bus Operators' Organisation, the Kerala Bus Transport Association and the Kerala State Bus Operators Coordination Committee. The operators had announced the agitation on October 27, alleging that the Priyadarshini free travel scheme caused financial difficulties by reducing passenger numbers and revenue.
During the talks, the government accepted demands to introduce private buses through a wet-leasing arrangement and to simplify the process for transferring or discontinuing services. The minister also agreed to review bus timings and take steps to prevent service overlaps with the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
The government will also examine a proposal to increase the allowed operational lifespan of buses from 22 to 25 years. Other issues, such as private insurance concerns and the demand to treat bus services as an industry, will be considered later.
To ensure continued dialogue, the government will establish a permanent committee featuring representatives from the bus operators' organisations. While the minister assured favourable consideration of various demands, no decision was reached regarding bus fares or passenger concession amounts.