Priyadarshini impact: expert panel recommends ‘industry status’ to private bus sector in Keralam
An expert committee in Kerala has recommended granting 'industry status' to the private bus sector to help operators modernize their fleets. The proposal includes options for wet-leasing buses to the state and tax payment flexibility to mitigate financial strain from the Priyadarshini free ride scheme.
Why it matters
This recommendation addresses the economic viability of private public transport providers when faced with state-subsidized competition.
The expert committee constituted by the Keralam government to study the issues faced by private bus operators following the introduction of the Priyadarshini free ride scheme for women on the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation’s (KSRTC) Ordinary buses has recommended that the State government accord industry status to the private bus sector.
By recognising the sector as an industry under the MSME category, private bus operators will be able to access bank loans, technical and financial assistance for modernisation of fleet, and other financial benefits.
The committee, headed by former Transport Commissioner and retired IPS officer K. Padmakumar, submitted its report to Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Wednesday, recommending several measures to address the concerns of private bus operators.
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