Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar said the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has entered one of the most successful phases in its history, citing improved passenger experience and better coordination between staff and commuters.

Speaking at a session titled ‘Aanavandi Chinnam Vilikkumbol’ (When ‘Aanavandi’ trumpets) at the Mathrubhumi International Festival of Letters (MBIFL) 2026 at Kanakakunnu Palace, Ganesh Kumar said the reforms announced earlier were now visible on the ground. “People now say KSRTC buses stop whenever passengers show their hands, and staff treat commuters with respect,” he noted.

He highlighted the accredited list of nearly 70 restaurants across Kerala,, made KSRTC buses to halt at these approved eateries that offer food and toilet facilities, particularly benefiting women passengers. A pilot project to distribute food and drinking water onboard select services has also begun.

Addressing internal resistance, Ganesh Kumar said some opposition arose from those attempting to misuse welfare measures. He cited instances where drivers and conductors chose the most expensive food items at accredited hotels, creating financial strain for owners. “When corrective steps are taken, some protest claiming their rights are being curtailed,” he said.

Describing what he termed the “Ganesan tactics,” the minister said he implements ideas decisively, regardless of complaints. “Fortunately, most employees and the public stand with me,” he added.

He also recalled the introduction of double-decker buses in Munnar, which initially faced opposition from within the department and from environmental groups but has since become a symbol of the hill station’s tourism.

Beyond road transport, Ganesh Kumar announced new initiatives in the water transport sector, including a curated tourism package in Alappuzha titled the Kuttanad Package. The programme will offer visitors hands-on experiences in handicrafts, folk arts, and traditional rope-making.

He further proposed a special women-only bus service, similar to a “pink bus”, with plans to submit the proposal to the United Nations. A four-wheeler shared transport service for women is also being planned to improve last-mile connectivity. New-model bus stations are under construction across the state.

Responding to questions on handling conflict, Ganesh Kumar advised calm and restraint. “Do not react foolishly; that only escalates matters. Let the issue settle on its own,” he said. He credited his father, former minister Balakrishna Pillai, for teaching him to give firm and truthful responses in public life, adding that “truth ultimately leads to peace”.

On electoral politics, the minister said he would continue to contest elections, stating that he had only begun implementing structured plans for Kerala’s future.