Thiruvananthapuram: The government has appointed an expert committee to study the crisis triggered in the private bus sector following the introduction of the 'Priyadarshini' scheme, which offers free travel for women on KSRTC buses.

Transport Minister C P John assured private bus owners that the five-member committee, chaired by former Transport Commissioner K Padmakumar, will submit its report within six weeks. The other members of the committee are former NATPAC Director B G Sreedevi, Additional Secretary (Transport) K S Vijayashree, Joint Transport Commissioner K Manoj Kumar and NATPAC scientist Dr Sanjay.

Road tax on monthly basis

Additionally, a facility will be introduced allowing private buses to pay their road tax on a monthly basis. The Minister also stated that private buses will be permitted to display advertisements without being charged a fee.

Bus owners demand fare revision

During discussions with the government, private bus owners strongly demanded a fare hike. They pointed out that fares were last revised four and a half years ago, since which the prices of diesel, oil and spare parts have risen remarkably.

Students’ concession

A final decision regarding student fares will be taken after consultations with student organisations. It was also decided to reschedule the timings of the Priyadarshini buses that run parallel to private buses.