Private Bus Operators in DK District Demand Subsidies Following Free Bus Travel Order For Women

The government has announced the implementation of the guarantee scheme that offers free travel for women in public transport buses across Karnataka. Following the order, private bus operators in Dakshina Kannada are demanding subsidies to compensate their “future losses”. Bus operators in the district say that they will have to bear the brunt of the free bus service scheme for women, which will be rolled out from June 11.

Dakshina Kannada Private Bus Operators Association president Jayasheela Adyanthaya said that a delegation of bus owners will meet chief minister Siddaramaiah soon, to discuss the issue and seek support.
“The new government scheme of free travel in state-run buses across Karnataka is indeed a blessing for women passengers. However, it will affect the functioning of private buses, as a majority of the women passengers will travel in state-run buses. Hence, it will add to the woes of the private bus operators.