Bengaluru: In a grand inauguration ceremony held near the Vidhana Soudha, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar officially launched a fleet of 100 new Karnataka Transport buses and 40 non-air-conditioned sleeper Pallakki (palanquin) buses, marking a significant expansion for the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).

During the same event, the Chief Minister also introduced upgraded Karnataka Transport buses designed for point-to-point operations. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing public transportation and promoting women’s economic empowerment. He noted the success of the Shakti Yojana, a flagship scheme that has enabled approximately 70.73 crore trips for women to travel for free by bus, although it has resulted in outstanding dues owed by the government to transport companies.

DyCM stressed the importance of professionalizing the transport industry, not only as a profit-making government organization but also for the benefit of the people and the welfare of its workers. As part of this commitment, provisions have been made to provide insurance compensation of up to Rs 1 crore to the families of transport staff in case of accidents, a benefit that will eventually extend to transport organizations in other states.

Shivakumar encouraged his wife to experience the new Pallakki bus during her trip to Mysore, drawing a connection between historical palanquins used by royalty and the modern public transport service for women and passengers. He commended the dedication of KSRTC and BMTC officers and workers and highlighted the high standard of service provided by Karnataka’s transport companies, which have gained recognition nationwide.

The event also saw the presence of Transport and Mujarai Minister Ramalingareddy, Minister K.H. Muniyappa, Ishwara Khandre, Dinesh Gundurao, MLA Ponnanna, former minister HM Revanna, political secretary to CM Govindaraju, and other dignitaries.