Keralam private bus operators threaten strike over ‘losses’ due to UDF govt’s Priyadarshini free travel scheme

The All Kerala Bus Operators Organisation says if the government fails to address their demands, the operators will launch an indefinite strike in coordination with other private bus operators across the State. (file image) | Photo Credit: The Hindu Private bus operators in Keralam have threatened an indefinite strike over the losses they say they have suffered since the UDF government introduced the Priyadarshini free-ride scheme for women and transgenders in KSRTC buses from June 15.The All Kerala Bus Operators Organisation (AKBOO) decided at its State council meeting held in Palakkad on Tuesday (September 8, 2026) to meet Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and Transport Minister C.P. John once again over the issue. The operators said that if the government fails to address their demands, they will launch an indefinite strike in coordination with other private bus operators across the State.According to the bus operators, the government has taken no concrete steps, even after 90 days, to protect the private bus sector from the impact of the Priyadarshini scheme. They have sought an increase in bus fares, including student fares, a diesel subsidy, and measures to offset the losses reportedly caused by the KSRTC free-ride scheme.“The scheme has caused losses of more than ₹120 crore to the private bus sector. We have been asking the government to address this, but nothing concrete has been done,” says T. Gopinathan, AKBOO State general secretary.Rising operating costs have added to the pressure. Diesel prices have increased by ₹8.50 a litre amid the West Asia conflict, after the government had earlier imposed a ₹2 cess on diesel. The price of engine oil used by buses has risen from ₹250 to ₹400, while insurance costs have increased by about ₹1.5 lakh, they point out.The operators also say they are struggling to pay wages and loan instalments. Some finance companies have begun repossessing buses over unpaid dues, they said.“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,” Mr. Gopinathan said.The organisation will decide on the strike date after its meeting with the Chief Minister and the Transport Minister.AKBOO State president P.K. Moosa presided over the meeting. General secretary T. Gopinathan and vice-presidents P.K. Pavithran, N. Vidyadharan, and K.A. Saleem also spoke. Published - September 09, 2026 03:51 pm IST