What’s Behind the Bus Controversy Between Kerala’s Minister and Thiruvananthapuram’s Mayor?
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Synopsis
In a heated dispute, Kerala’s Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar has countered claims made by Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh regarding e-bus operations. The exchange raises questions about political influences and financial agreements affecting local transportation. This article delves into the ongoing conflict and its implications for the city's residents.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's Transport Minister defends e-bus operations amid political accusations.
- Dispute centers around 113 e-buses purchased by the Corporation.
- Minister claims Rs 500 crore was state-funded for the project.
- Complex maintenance issues limit e-bus operations outside Thiruvananthapuram.
- Mayor demands adherence to the original agreement for local benefits.
Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 31 (NationPress) Kerala Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar responded on Wednesday to Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh amid the escalating debate surrounding the management of city e-buses, insisting that his statements should not be misinterpreted.
The dispute began when Rajesh accused KSRTC of relocating the Corporation’s e-buses to different regions of the state due to pressure from various political figures.
The filmstar-turned Minister clarified that it was misleading to assert that the e-buses were acquired through a Central government initiative, emphasizing that the state contributed Rs 500 crore, which constitutes 60% of the total expenditure.
He revealed that the Corporation had purchased 113 e-buses under this arrangement, which was based on a tripartite agreement.
Addressing operational concerns, Ganesh Kumar noted that KSRTC buses affiliated with the Corporation are not being utilized in other districts due to the intricate maintenance requirements.
“Currently, they are not deployed outside the district because of the complicated maintenance needs,” he explained, highlighting that merely replacing a damaged battery could cost Rs 28 lakh.
The Minister stated that if the Thiruvananthapuram Mayor insisted on the return of all 113 e-buses, they could be dispatched back within 24 hours.
“All that is needed is a letter to the KSRTC CMD,” he added, noting that in exchange, KSRTC would provide 150 buses to the city.
However, he clarified that if the Corporation buses were returned, they would not be permitted to park on KSRTC grounds.
Ganesh Kumar indicated that the Mayor has not communicated with him directly regarding this matter and suggested that he may have been misled by others.
“We are ready to return the vehicles without any hesitation,” he asserted, mentioning that KSRTC supplies the drivers, conductors, and workshop facilities for the buses.
Previously, Mayor V.V. Rajesh stated that e-buses should operate exclusively within city limits, demanding the immediate return of those deployed outside the city.
He claimed that political influences were behind the decision to relocate them and stated that the Corporation must receive its fair share of profits.
The Mayor insisted that the agreement cannot be modified at the whim of one or two individuals and reiterated that the buses were allocated to the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation by the Centre. He emphasized that the buses should benefit the residents within the Corporation's jurisdiction and indicated plans to review the contract documents with KSRTC.
The BJP made history earlier this month by winning the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation for the first time, ending the CPI(M)-led Left Front’s rule which lasted over forty years.
Point of View
It is essential to present an unbiased perspective on this developing story. The ongoing conflict between Kerala's Transport Minister and Thiruvananthapuram's Mayor highlights significant issues surrounding local governance and transportation. Both parties have valid points, and a resolution is crucial for the residents who depend on e-bus services.
NationPress
02/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the controversy between the Minister and the Mayor?
The controversy began when Mayor V.V. Rajesh accused KSRTC of relocating e-buses due to political pressure, prompting a response from Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar.
How much did the state contribute to the e-bus project?
The state contributed Rs 500 crore, which is 60% of the total cost of the e-bus project.
How many e-buses were purchased by the Corporation?
The Corporation purchased a total of 113 e-buses under the agreed arrangement.
What did the Minister say about the operation of e-buses outside the city?
The Minister stated that the e-buses are not operated outside the district due to complicated maintenance requirements.
What is the Mayor's stance on the e-buses?
The Mayor insists that the e-buses should operate only within city limits and called for the immediate return of those deployed outside.
