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The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is planning to provide complimentary transportation for cancer patients traveling to hospitals, both within Kerala and beyond.
This initiative extends to private medical facilities for procedures such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar announced this development in the Assembly on October 9, 2025. To avail of this service, patients must present certification from their oncologist to the KSRTC bus personnel as verification of their condition.
Mr. Ganesh Kumar emphasized that this program, introduced by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, represents a notable enhancement compared to the previous United Democratic Front (UDF) administration's approach. Previously, the UDF had only subsidized half of the travel expenses for cancer treatment and restricted the service to city and local buses. Now, cancer patients have the opportunity to travel for free on various bus types, including Superfast, Deluxe, air-conditioned buses, and long-distance luxury coaches.
For students, the KSRTC is launching a mobile application to facilitate the process of obtaining travel concessions. Mr. Ganesh Kumar noted that students are no longer required to renew their concessions on a yearly basis. Instead, they can request renewals through the app during their daily commute with assistance from the conductor. Students in Class 8 to 10 will only need to renew their concession tickets after advancing to Plus Two courses.
Degree students will be issued a concession card valid for three years, further simplifying their travel arrangements. This digital initiative aims to enhance the convenience and efficiency of student travel.
To boost passenger comfort, KSRTC stations will feature air-conditioned waiting areas equipped with special facilities for women and children. Security measures will be strengthened through the installation of surveillance cameras in stage carriages and at bus stops.
Moreover, KSRTC has begun the process of accrediting hotels and restaurants along long-distance routes. Only those establishments that meet specific requirements-including having at least four well-maintained restrooms, two for men and two for women, while adhering to food safety and hygiene standards-will be approved as official stops for KSRTC buses.
In terms of infrastructure, the government is planning to dismantle old KSRTC depots and replace them with new structures designed to resemble modern airports. These greenfield projects aim to offer advanced facilities for passengers.
KSRTC will partner with Sulabh Society, a non-profit organization, to ensure the upkeep of new toilets, washrooms, and cloakrooms in these upgraded depots. This collaboration will help maintain high standards of cleanliness in public facilities.
Additionally, KSRTC plans to expand its fleet by introducing new air-conditioned buses while phasing out older diesel vehicles that contribute to pollution. The focus will also be on enhancing service to rural regions in Kerala, ensuring affordable transportation for marginalized groups such as forest tribes.
This comprehensive strategy by KSRTC showcases a dedication to enhancing public transport services while addressing environmental issues and improving the passenger experience throughout Kerala.
