Kerala pvt buses to go on strike over student concessions, lack of transport policy

Lawrence Babu, president, Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) that includes 12 private bus owners associations in Kerala and secretary of Kerala State Private Bus Operators’ Federation, told TNM that they have been demanding a transport policy for the last several years.

“The government runs a number of Kerala RTC buses on private bus routes and both end up making huge losses. So we have been demanding a transport policy that can be useful for both parties," he said.

Another demand raised by associations is to increase the student concession rates and also introduce concessions for RTC buses. "It is just one rupee for a student now. During school timings, they will occupy buses fully, how can we manage? RTC buses should also introduce concessions," Lawrence said.

He added that if the buses don't allow students to enter, the bus staff are manhandled by locals.

"Students have a tendency to enter first in the bus. So if one bus is filled with just students, it will be a huge loss. In Kerala RTC, students’ concession has certain formalities and the reason they are not introducing concessions is because they are already steeped in losses and this will only double their present losses. But these issues are present with us as well," he said. 

He added that since Kerala RTC buses don’t have concessions, it should be removed from private buses too.

He said that 50% concession can be allowed for students. "Many students pay fees at different schools, there is no concession on their books, uniforms or any other accessories they use. Why are concessions allowed only for private bus transport?” he asked.

They also demanded a rise in minimum charge from Rs 8 to Rs 10.

Lawrence warned that the coming one-day strike is just the beginning and if their demands are not considered, they will go for an indefinite strike.