Kerala Transport Minister Mocks Congress's Free Bus Travel Pledge for Women
In a sharp critique, Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar on Sunday derided the Congress party's election promise to provide free bus travel for women on KSRTC services if the UDF coalition secures power in the upcoming elections. Kumar asserted that while implementing such a scheme might be straightforward, it would precipitate severe operational and financial crises for both the transport corporation and the public within just two months.
Financial Recovery at Risk
Kumar highlighted that KSRTC is currently in a fragile state of recovery from prolonged financial distress. He accused the UDF of previously enacting policies that weakened the department, exacerbating its struggles. The minister emphasized that the corporation, though not yet profitable, has been making strides in reducing daily losses and boosting revenue through concerted efforts.
However, significant liabilities persist, including outstanding payments to pensioners, which compound the financial burden. Despite these challenges, Kumar praised KSRTC employees for their dedication in ensuring timely salary disbursements and maintaining operations without major losses.
Lessons from Karnataka's Experience
Referencing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Kumar pointed to claims that all women in Karnataka were granted free bus travel. Recent reports indicate that state transport corporations in Karnataka are now grappling with substantial losses and financial hardships as a result. Kumar warned that replicating this model in Kerala could have devastating consequences.
"If the promise made by Rahul Gandhi is implemented even for two months, KSRTC will not be able to pay salaries and the corporation itself may not survive," the minister stated bluntly.
Critique of Election Promises
Kumar condemned the practice of using public funds to lure votes during election campaigns, labeling it as inappropriate. He argued that KSRTC lacks the capacity to shoulder the burden of universal free travel for women. Instead, he proposed that any such benefit should be restricted to economically disadvantaged individuals, such as those holding below poverty line (BPL) cards.
He questioned the rationale behind extending free travel to affluent women or government employees earning over Rs 40,000 per month, suggesting it would be an inefficient use of resources.
Government Support and Targeted Assistance
The minister outlined the current administration's efforts to bolster KSRTC, noting that the government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan provides approximately Rs 50 crore monthly for salaries and Rs 74 crore for pensions. Additionally, Kumar highlighted existing targeted assistance programs, such as the 'Happy Long Life' card, which offers free travel on buses up to the superfast category for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
This focused approach, he argued, ensures support reaches those most in need without jeopardizing the corporation's financial stability.
