KSRTC bookings surge 68% as Deepavali travel demand peaks

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) reported a sharp escalation in seat reservations over the past three days, with daily bookings reaching approximately 62,000—a significant increase from the operator's standard daily average of around 37,000 seats.

The 68 percent jump in reservations reflects heightened travel activity as Indians across the region prepare for Deepavali celebrations. The festival period typically prompts substantial migration as families and workers travel to their hometowns for festivities, placing considerable strain on transportation networks.

KSRTC officials attributed the elevated booking figures to the festive season, though the corporation has not yet announced whether additional bus services have been deployed to accommodate the surge. The data suggests that road transport remains a preferred mode of travel for many commuters during major festivals in South India.

The corporation's ability to manage the increased passenger load will be closely watched, particularly as the festival period continues and travel demand may remain elevated. KSRTC operates one of India's largest state-run bus networks, serving millions of passengers across Karnataka annually.