Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 13 (IANS) The bus refurbishment project being implemented as part of the State government’s 100‑day programme will bring significant financial benefits to the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Transport Minister C.P. John said on Thursday.
Speaking after flagging off 14 buses refurbished in the first phase of the project at the Thiruvananthapuram City Depot, the Minister said the amount required to purchase one new bus could instead be used to repair and put around 10 buses back into service.
The average cost of refurbishing a Deluxe‑category bus is around Rs 2.5 lakh. In contrast, buses in categories such as FP, SFP and similar services can be refurbished at an average cost of Rs 1.5 lakh.
The work involves not only improving the interior and exterior appearance of the buses but also inspecting and repairing their mechanical and electrical systems, seats, lighting, flooring and windows. Refurbishment work is currently being carried out at five KSRTC workshops.
The Minister praised the skilled mechanical staff, workers and unions whose efforts helped complete the first phase of the project quickly. He said KSRTC’s objective was to ensure a safer and more comfortable travel experience for passengers, for which the quality of its buses had to be improved.
The refurbishment programme covers 26 Super Class buses, 52 Fast Passenger and Super Fast buses and 22 Ordinary buses. At present, BS‑III and BS‑IV buses that have completed their stipulated service life but remain technically fit for reuse are being refurbished.
The engines of the buses are being specially examined, and only those requiring reconditioning are subjected to the process. According to test results, refurbished buses have recorded a reduction of 80 to 85 per cent in pollution levels.
The Minister said periodic refurbishment could considerably extend the operational life of buses. The project would enable KSRTC to retain technically sound older buses in service for longer periods while making more efficient use of its existing fleet alongside the purchase of new buses.
Minister John also announced Project Surya and distributed certificates to the mechanical department employees who carried out the refurbishment work.
–IANS
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