KSRTC Limits Riders on Gavi Bus Service Over Safety Concerns

Kerala’s State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has taken a cautious step by trimming the number of passengers allowed on its Gavi‑to‑Thiruvalla bus route. The decision comes after a series of safety alerts and a few close‑call incidents that left commuters and officials alike feeling uneasy.

Gavi, perched on the western ghats, draws tourists year‑round for its mist‑shrouded forests and tea‑plantation vistas. The bus service, launched a few years ago, quickly became the lifeline for both locals and visitors, offering a cheap, reliable way to reach the remote hill station. Yet the winding, narrow roads and steep gradients have always demanded a little extra care.

In recent weeks, a handful of minor collisions – one involving a stray cattle herd, another where a bus skidded on a sudden downpour – sparked a media frenzy. Social media posts, peppered with shaky videos, amplified public worries. "We love the route, but safety can’t be an afterthought," one commuter wrote, echoing a sentiment shared by many.

KSRTC’s transport manager, Ramesh Menon, addressed the issue in a press briefing held at the headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram. “Our priority is the well‑being of passengers,” he said, “so we have decided to limit each bus to 30 seats instead of the usual 40. This gives the driver a bit more leeway, especially on tight bends.” He added that the move is temporary, pending a detailed safety audit of the road infrastructure.

The new limit translates to fewer seats per trip, which means longer wait times during peak holiday seasons. Some travelers have already voiced frustration, fearing that the reduced capacity could dent tourism revenue. However, KSRTC has promised to increase the frequency of trips to mitigate the inconvenience.

Local authorities are also stepping in. The Public Works Department (PWD) has pledged to assess the road conditions, looking at options such as widening certain stretches, improving drainage, and installing better signage. “We’re collaborating with KSRTC and the tourism department,” said PWD engineer Anita Varma. “A coordinated approach will ensure that the scenic charm of Gavi doesn’t come at the cost of safety.”

Meanwhile, passengers are being urged to book tickets early and to remain patient as the service adjusts. Many have taken the news in stride, appreciating the proactive stance. As one veteran bus driver, who prefers to stay anonymous, put it: “If we’re a little slower and carry fewer people, the journey stays safe. That’s worth it.”

The Gavi bus saga underscores a broader challenge for Kerala’s transport network: balancing the allure of its natural attractions with the practicalities of road safety. For now, the capped seats serve as a reminder that even the most beloved routes sometimes need a pause, a review, and a gentle tweak.