World · India Bureau
Kerala bus operators reject panel report, threaten strike action
Private bus operators in Kerala have dismissed recommendations from an expert committee, citing failure to address critical demands including free travel for women and diesel subsidies. The operators have warned of potential strike action if their concerns remain unaddressed.
LSN India ·
The All Kerala Bus Operators Organisation rejected the expert panel's findings during a meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram on September 3, 2026, asserting that the report overlooked several key demands essential to the industry's viability.
Operators flagged the absence of provisions for zero ticketing for women passengers, a significant issue affecting revenue generation for private bus services across the state. The committee's failure to recommend diesel subsidies also drew sharp criticism from the operators, who contend that fuel costs represent a major operational burden.
The organisation has indicated it may resort to strike action should authorities fail to incorporate their demands into policy decisions. The threat underscores growing tensions between private transport operators and the state government over regulatory and financial matters.
The expert panel's recommendations now face implementation challenges as bus operators mobilise to protect their interests. Negotiations between the operators' body and government officials are expected to intensify in coming weeks as both sides seek to resolve the impasse.