Thiruvananthapuram: As police strengthens the inspections against the unauthorized inter-state private buses, the number of buses starting from different cities has been reduced to a third of the previous number. Realizing that the services without permit could get them caught, many cancelled their services. A decrease has also been noted in the number of online bookings.
On the other hand demand for state-run KSRTC services is on rise. The actions taken to control the unauthorized agencies has also affected the online booking. There are 2,000 agencies in Kerala, but only 100 of them hold the licence.
Applications for the licence are reaching the RTO offices, but the office is sending them back asking them to apply in the new format. Existing licence holders also are being asked to apply fresh in the new format.
KSRTC had decided to lease private buses and conduct contract carriage services, but the final plan will be made on Thursday. KSRTC currently has 10 leased Scania buses, but will lease buses with less rentals from Kerala. Contract carriage buses will start next month.
KSRTC will take LATP license for starting booking agencies for these services. Since KSRTC has the basic infrastructure, there will be no difficulties in the licencing process.
KSRTC is also considering ‘point-to-point’ services to Bengaluru from the cities like Thiruvananthapuram. KSRTC currently is currently not able to conduct services along 18 routes, for which it holds permit, because of the lack of coaches. The Management is working to solve this problem.