Private bus operators call off hunger strike after talks with Transport Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The KSRTC will operate services by taking private buses on wet lease to address the crisis in the private bus sector in Kerala, Transport Minister C.P. John has said. The minister gave the assurance during a meeting with representatives of the Kerala State Private Bus Operators Federation. He also promised to take steps to recognise the bus service sector as an industry. Following the minister's assurances, the federation leaders called off their hunger strike in front of the Secretariat.

The minister said the recommendations of the Padmakumar Commission on extending the service life of buses would be implemented in accordance with the law. He also promised to remove technical hurdles that prevent a bus owner from legally transferring a service to another person. A permanent committee, including representatives of bus owners' organisations, will also be formed to discuss their concerns and maintain regular communication with the government.

Transport Secretary D. Balamurali, Transport Commissioner Sparjan Kumar, the minister's Private Secretary M.P. Saju, and federation office-bearers Hamsa Erikkunnan, K. Sathyan, Palamuttath Vijayakumar and M.S. Premkumar attended the meeting.