State govt. urged to reconsider proposal to procure only air-conditioned buses
Consumer advocates in Coimbatore are urging the state government to reconsider a proposal to exclusively procure air-conditioned buses for public transport. They argue that the higher costs associated with AC buses will make public transit less affordable and accessible for the general public.
Why it matters
This highlights the tension between modernizing public infrastructure and maintaining affordability for low-income commuters.
Coimbatore Consumer Cause on Tuesday urged the State Government to reconsider its proposal to procure only air-conditioned buses to augment fleet of state transport corporations.
While the intent to ensure comfortable travel is laudable, the services of air-conditioned buses may not be affordable, frequent and accessible for a large section of common people,
K. Kathirmathiyon, Secretary, Coimbatore Consumer Cause, said in a representation to the Chief Minister.
The difference in minimum fare is five times higher in air-conditioned buses, in city buses and about three times higher for mofussil services.
Also, air-conditioned buses are expensive, consume more fuel, and necessitate much higher maintenance cost.
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