Will Karnataka RTC Operate 90 Special Buses to Kerala for Onam?
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Synopsis
In a significant move for Onam celebrations, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation is launching 90 special bus services from Bengaluru to Kerala. This initiative aims to ease travel difficulties for Malayali passengers during the festive season, providing them a reliable and affordable transportation option.
Key Takeaways
- 90 special bus services launched for Onam by KSRTC.
- Services operate from September 2 to 4, with return trips on September 7.
- Tickets can be booked online at m.kstrtc.in.
- Discounts available for group and round trip bookings.
- Key routes include Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Bengaluru/Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 2 (NationPress) The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is set to launch nearly 90 special bus services this week from Bengaluru to various districts in Kerala to manage the significant influx of travelers due to Onam.
The special services will be operational from September 2 to 4, with return trips planned for September 7, providing considerable relief to Malayali passengers who have faced challenges in securing tickets to travel home.
This initiative was made possible thanks to the intervention of AICC General Secretary and Alappuzha MP KC Venugopal, who brought the issue to the attention of Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy.
Upon his request, the corporation authorized these special services.
According to KSRTC, buses will depart from Mysuru Road Bus Stand and Shantinagar BMTC Bus Station, with premium services available from Shantinagar.
Key destinations include Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Cherthala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Palakkad, Thrissur, Kottayam, and other significant towns in Kerala.
This decision comes amid numerous complaints regarding private operators charging inflated fares while failing to meet demand.
As train tickets are sold out well in advance, these official services are anticipated to provide travelers with a secure and economical alternative.
One of the special services will depart from Shantinagar on September 4 at 8:15 p.m., arriving in Alappuzha at 7:50 a.m. the next day.
The return service from Alappuzha to Bengaluru is scheduled for September 7 at 7:35 p.m., reaching the city the following morning.
Tickets can be conveniently booked online via m.kstrtc.in.
For these routes, the corporation will utilize its premium Airavat Club Class AC semi-sleeper buses.
In a bid to encourage bookings, KSRTC has also introduced discounts of 5 percent for groups of four traveling together and a 10 percent discount for round trip purchases.
Passengers heading home for Onam, especially from Bengaluru to Alappuzha and nearby districts, are expected to gain significantly from these additional services.
This move has been met with appreciation as timely and practical, ensuring a smoother travel experience during the festivities.
Kerala is gearing up for Onam, the traditional harvest festival, with the three main Onam days commencing on Thursday.
All educational institutions in Kerala are currently closed and will resume on September 10.
Point of View
The timely intervention by Karnataka RTC to provide special bus services highlights the commitment to ensuring smooth travel for the residents. This initiative not only caters to the immediate needs of passengers but also reinforces the importance of public transport in festive times. It’s a welcome approach that showcases collaborative governance and operational efficiency.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the special bus services for Onam?
The Karnataka RTC is operating nearly 90 special bus services from Bengaluru to various districts in Kerala to accommodate the heavy travel demand during Onam.
When are the special buses operational?
The special services will run from September 2 to 4, with return trips available on September 7.
How can I book tickets for the special buses?
Tickets can be booked online through the KSRTC website at m.kstrtc.in.
What discounts are available for group bookings?
KSRTC is offering a 5% discount for groups of four traveling together and a 10% discount for round trip purchases.
Which destinations will the special buses cover?
The buses will serve several key destinations including Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode, among others.
