In a bid to modernize public transport, Transport Minister KB Ganesh Kumar has announced a series of reforms for the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the new bus terminal at Kottarakkara, the minister revealed that the corporation is moving towards more passenger-centric services. Highlights include the introduction of bottled drinking water at a subsidized rate of ₹13 across KSRTC buses.
Another change is the “Stop on Demand” facility for long distance connections. Through the KSRTC Chalo app, passengers can now request to be dropped at preferred locations, even if they are not scheduled stops, by paying an additional fee of ₹20. In addition, the company is implementing pricing software for long-haul bookings during the festival season that will adjust ticket prices based on demand, similar to airline and private bus reservation systems. The minister also added that more minibus services would be launched to improve connectivity.
Finance Minister KN Balagopal, presiding over the function, said that the upcoming Kottarakkara Bus Terminal will become a landmark for the region. The project, estimated at ₹ 18.10 crore, is being funded through the Asset Development Fund and the MLA Company Plan. Funds were allocated for a new garage behind the terminal. “Similar projects will soon be launched for major hubs in Vizhinjam and Ernakulam,” he said.
He added that the construction of a 1,47,000 square feet IT park capable of accommodating 1,500 employees would be started soon. Mr. Balagopal also highlighted the new bus service on the Nellikkunnam-Chepra-Ummannoor-Valakam route at the event.
Published – 01 March 2026 20:48 IST
