Priyadarshini scheme impact: Sharp dip in passengers since Monday, concern looms

THRISSUR: A state-level meeting of private bus owners will be held in Thrissur today to protest against the government's decision to allow free travel for women in KSRTC ordinary buses. Private bus owners are worried as a sharp dip in passengers has been recorded since Monday afternoon. The owners argue that the complete shift of female passengers to KSRTC will put them in a serious crisis.

The organisation is making moves to meet Chief Minister VD Satheesan and submit suggestions. Most of those who rely on private buses are women. However, the owners argue that there has been a significant drop in the number of passengers since yesterday, and women have totally switched en masse to KSRTC, putting their business in crisis.

If not for a favourable move from the government, the private bus owners warned that they would have to stop bus services even before going on strike. The organisation demanded a special financial package for them in the upcoming state budget, and that a diesel subsidy be granted. They will also ask the government to increase the concession rate for students. The bus owners' organisation said that if the government does not take a favourable stance on these issues, they will continue with the strike.