Kerala bus fare hike: Passengers hit hard due to stir

Thiruvanthapuram: Arguing that the hike in bus fare announced by the Kerala government was insufficient, private bus operators began an indefinite strike from Friday demanding further increase in fares. This affected commuters, especially in central and northern parts of the state who depend on private buses. In southern parts, the bus strike, especially in Kollam and Pathanathitta districts affected commuters in routes where private buses operated more.

Commuters were stranded at bus stops for long. With people venturing out in private vehicles, there was traffic congestion. There was rise in demand for autorickshaws, taxi cars and online taxis. KSRTC buses, and other modes of transport  There were complaints of autorickshaw drivers charge exorbitant rates. Commuters had a tough time as some KSRTC depots stuck to their regular schedules.

According to bus association sources, nearly 14,500 private buses, that come under 12 different organisations, were taking part in the strike. KSRTC operated more bus services for the benefit of passengers. The bus operators have made clear that they would go ahead with the strike till transport minister A.K. Saseeendran convened the meeting with them to discuss their issues.