Bus AC system failure: Consumer court orders KSRTC to pay ₹13,000 compensation to passenger

The passenger claimed that the air conditioning in the bus did not work properly during the journey, causing him significant discomfort and breathing problems. | Photo credit: File photo

The Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered the KSRTC to pay compensation worth ₹13,000 to a passenger who complained about the failure of the air conditioning system in the bus in which he was travelling.

Sachith KH, a resident of Biligeri village in Madikeri taluk, was traveling from Madikeri to Bengaluru in a KSRTC EV Power Plus bus on November 6, 2025.

He claimed that during the trip, the air conditioning in the bus did not work properly, causing him significant discomfort and breathing problems.

Although the problem was brought to the attention of the bus conductor, no corrective action was taken. The bus also had no windows that could be opened, which made the situation even worse.

Subsequently, Mr. Sachith filed a complaint with the Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission seeking compensation for the inconvenience and hardship he suffered during the journey.

The commission found that passengers in air-conditioned buses pay higher fares including taxes, specifically for the AC facility. If the air-conditioning fails after the passenger has paid the ticket, it is the responsibility of the transport company to provide an alternative solution, such as facilitating travel in another air-conditioned bus of the company from the Mysuru bus stand, the commission said.

Accordingly, the commission comprising Acting President Renukamba C and Member Gourammanni directed the KSRTC to pay a total compensation of ₹13,000 along with interest at 9% p.a.

Published – 17 Jun 2026 22:36 IST