KSRTC launches chain services

Kochi: A day after the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) started chain services in the Vytilla-Njarackal section, the private bus operators on Tuesday opposed the move saying it would only result in further congestion of the city.

The private buses operating in the region are allowed to ply only till High Court Junction,  denied  entry to city routes. So far, passengers travelling to the city were forced to board two buses to reach their city destinations.

“The service operation is a clear violation of an earlier High Court order preventing stage carriers from operating directly to city areas. It cited that the same will add to the congestion woes. The RTC operating direct services will add to the traffic jams in the city especially during peak hours,” said M.B. Satyan of the Private Bus Operators Federation.

The federation will submit a formal complaint to the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) and the district collector.

Meanwhile, transport expert and chairman of the State Public Trans-port Protection Commi-ttee Dijo Kappan rubbished the claims of the private bus operators. “The move is set to benefit thousands of passengers and help them save Rs 6to Rs 8 in ticket charges one side. The traffic congestion scenarios won’t be affected by operating another 12 buses. The authorities, though, can take measures like preventing big vehicles from outside entering the city or restrict in tourist bus operations during peak hours and the like,” he said.

Nearly one lakh commuters travel to the city from the region daily and mainly depended on private buses so far to reach their destinations.