Kerala private bus operators threaten indefinite strike over Priyadarshini scheme losses

Private bus operators in Kerala have threatened an indefinite statewide strike, citing mounting losses they attribute to the government's Priyadarshini free-ride scheme for women and transgender passengers on KSRTC buses, launched on June 15.

The All Kerala Bus Operators Organisation (AKBOO) took the decision at its state council meeting in Palakkad on Tuesday. The body plans to meet Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Transport Minister C.P. John once more before fixing a strike date, warning of coordinated action across the state if demands remain unaddressed.

AKBOO general secretary T. Gopinathan said the scheme has caused losses exceeding ₹120 crore to the private bus sector. "We have been asking the government to address this, but nothing concrete has been done," he said.

Operators are also grappling with rising operational costs. Diesel prices have climbed by ₹8.50 per litre amid the West Asia conflict, on top of an earlier ₹2 cess imposed by the government. Engine oil prices have risen from ₹250 to ₹400, and insurance costs have increased by roughly ₹1.5 lakh per bus.

The financial strain has made it difficult for operators to pay wages and service loans, with some finance companies already repossessing buses over unpaid dues.

Gopinathan expressed frustration over the government's stance. "The Chief Minister and the Transport Minister tell us that our industry cannot be allowed to disappear. But that concern is not reflected in their actions," he said.

The operators are demanding an increase in bus fares, including student fares, a diesel subsidy, and compensation measures to offset losses from the KSRTC scheme. AKBOO state president P.K. Moosa presided over the meeting, with vice-presidents P.K. Pavithran, N. Vidyadharan, and K.A. Saleem also in attendance.