Has the CM Vijayan government made travel free for cancer patients?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking move, the Kerala government has introduced a free travel scheme for cancer patients, aiming to ease their financial burden while accessing medical care. This initiative is set against the backdrop of alarming cancer statistics in the state.
Key Takeaways
- The Kerala government has announced free bus travel for cancer patients.
- This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens for those seeking treatment.
- It includes all KSRTC buses up to the Super Fast category.
- The announcement comes during a critical election period.
- Kerala has alarming cancer incidence rates that necessitate such support.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 9 (NationPress) In an exceptional welfare initiative, the Kerala government has declared free bus travel for all cancer patients using buses operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) up to the Super Fast category. This announcement is timely as the 2024 Economic Review of the state highlights that cancer ranks among the leading Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) in Kerala.
The review also indicated that cancer mortality rates among males in the state are significantly above the national average.
With local body elections approaching and Assembly elections scheduled for April/May next year, this announcement is pivotal.
Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar revealed the decision in the Assembly, emphasizing its immediate implementation.
This initiative will also support patients traveling to private healthcare facilities, alleviating the financial strain of travel and ensuring access to necessary medical care.
“The KSRTC Director Board will endorse and execute the decision today itself,” the minister conveyed to the House.
Despite opposition protests during the announcement, the minister maintained a firm stance, criticizing the disruptions.
“The Opposition may not find this significant. They yelled ‘shame’ when we made the announcement. However, for patients and their families, this represents a major relief,” he stated.
This welfare initiative follows a period of robust operational success for the KSRTC.
On October 6, the corporation achieved a remarkable daily ticket revenue of Rs 9.41 crore, marking the second-highest in its history, with the highest collection of Rs 10.19 crore recorded on September 8, 2025.
The free travel program for cancer patients underscores KSRTC’s commitment to marrying social responsibility with operational efficiency, establishing the state-run transporter as both a welfare champion and a financially sustainable public service.
Kerala has the highest rate of crude cancer incidence in India, with approximately 88,460 new cases annually, expected to rise to around 90,000 by 2030.
Breast cancer remains the most prevalent form among women, while lung cancer is the predominant type in men.
Point of View
We recognize the Kerala government’s initiative as a commendable step towards supporting a vulnerable population. This move reflects a commitment to public health and welfare, especially in a state grappling with high cancer incidence rates. It is imperative that such efforts continue to be prioritized across the nation.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the free travel scheme?
All cancer patients traveling on KSRTC buses up to the Super Fast category are eligible for the free travel scheme.
When will the scheme be implemented?
The scheme is set to be implemented immediately following the announcement made in the Assembly.
What type of buses are included in the free travel initiative?
The initiative includes all buses operated by the KSRTC up to the Super Fast category.
How does this initiative help cancer patients?
This initiative alleviates the financial burden of travel, ensuring that patients can access treatment without worrying about transportation costs.
What are the cancer statistics in Kerala?
Kerala has the highest crude cancer incidence rate in India, with approximately 88,460 new cases annually, projected to reach about 90,000 by 2030.
