KSRTC Bus Shortage: Over 2,200 Buses Scrapped Since 2016

No New Buses - KSRTC Will Refurbish its Airavat Fleet

The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is grappling with a severe bus shortage as it has scrapped 2,202 buses between 2016 and February 2025, while adding only 538 new buses during the same period.

The limited fleet expansion has significantly impacted public transport, particularly in rural areas and long-distance routes.

Also Read: KSRTC Launches Munnar Double-Decker Bus with 360 Degree Panoramic View

Where Are the New Buses Going Amid KSRTC Bus Shortage?

Out of the 538 newly acquired buses:

  • Majority have been allocated to KSRTC SWIFT services.
  • Only 100 buses have been assigned directly to KSRTC.

This distribution has left the main KSRTC fleet struggling to meet passenger demand, especially on ordinary routes.m service, while only 100 buses have been inducted into the KSRTC’s regular fleet.

Aging Fleet and Frequent Breakdowns

  • Garuda Buses: Once considered premium, these orange-colored buses are now in poor condition.
  • Scania Buses: Despite being 11 years old, they remain in operation, frequently breaking down mid-route and causing inconvenience to passengers.
  • KSRTC SWIFT AC Buses: Complaints are rising over performance issues and lack of reliability.

When a bus breaks down, passengers are forced to wait for the next available bus or shift to overcrowded alternatives, causing delays and discomfort.

Also Read: Six Innovative Initiatives by KSRTC That Can Inspire Other State Transport Undertakings

Policy Changes Impacting Ordinary Services

Previously, super-class buses were downgraded to ordinary services after five years, ensuring a steady influx of buses for regular commuters. However, the policy has now changed:

  • Super-class buses now have a lifespan of 12 years.
  • Ordinary services no longer benefit from regular bus upgrades.

This shift has further contributed to the lack of available buses for village and town routes, making public transportation less accessible for daily commuters.

The urgent need for fleet expansion and timely maintenance remains a major concern for Kerala’s public transportation system.