KSRTC launches Kozhikode-Balussery chain service

Six buses to be deployed for operating the uninterrupted service from Monday

Offering better rural connect, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) on Sunday launched its new chain service between Kozhikode and Balussery. Transport Minister A.K. Saseendran flagged off the service at an event held at Balussery.

KSRTC officials said six buses, three from the Thamarassery depot and as many from the Kozhikode depot would be used for operating the uninterrupted service from Monday. This would be in addition to the previously launched six services connecting the two locations, they said.

The 26-km chain service between Balussery and Kozhikode has been a long-pending demand with the increase in the number of passengers and the rapid developments taking place in these areas. Though the proposal was officially approved four months ago, the shortage of the required staff was playing spoilsport.

An official from the KSRTC said the new service was launched overcoming a number of technical difficulties and the shortage of staff. “It can be continued as planned only if we are able to generate a good income from the route”, he said.

KSRTC sources said there was strong resistance by private bus operators against all the previous chain services launched from the city connecting various destinations. The private bus workers had even appointed their agents in various bus stands to prompt passengers to board private buses before the arrival of KSRTC buses, they said.

The Koyilandy-Perinthalmanna route chain service was one of such targeted service with the stiff opposition from local bus operators. There were also attempts threaten KSRTC bus drivers and damage the buses during the trips.

Buses for rural areas

Addressing a gathering after flagging off the KSRTC’s new chain service at Balussery on Sunday, Transport Minister A.K. Saseendran said that the KSRTC would operate more services to the rural areas of Kozhikode district to address the concerns of rural passengers. He said priority would be given to operating services to areas such as Koorachundu, Mankayam and Thalayad. The new services could be considered as Onam gifts from the KSRTC, he said.

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