Alternate headline 1: RTO approves extended bus services to improve rural connectivity in Udupi
Alternate headline 2: Additional bus routes cleared under existing permits in Udupi district

SEO-friendly slug: udupi-bus-service-24-km-extension-permission

Bus services on additional routes have become possible in Udupi district after permission was granted to operate up to 24 km extra using existing permits for private and government buses.

So far, approval has been given to 23 buses across the district, which has helped extend services to rural areas. Issuance of new permits for private buses was stopped in both districts in 2018. Temporary permits were issued till 2019, but no new permanent permits are being granted now.

Due to public complaints about lack of bus connectivity in rural areas, the Transport Department issued an order in 2023 allowing an additional 24 km operation under existing permits. The Regional Transport Authority may approve this based on public demand.

A total of 38 applications were received, including 16 from KSRTC and 22 from private bus owners. Twelve KSRTC applications have been approved, two are under review and two were rejected. Among private buses, 11 applications were approved, one was rejected and 10 are under review.

Three applications were rejected due to overlapping bus timings and mismatch with existing schedules.

Officials stated that if there is public demand and no dispute between bus operators, permission will be granted, but RTO approval is mandatory.

During the Covid period, several rural bus services were discontinued due to losses. Although conditions have improved, some routes are yet to resume services. Following public requests, services have restarted on some routes, benefiting many residents.

Applications submitted by KSRTC seeking new permits for rural and urban routes were rejected. Authorities have instructed KSRTC to operate on suspended routes and extend services by 24 km where feasible.

No buses have been permitted to operate the additional 24 km in Dakshina Kannada district so far due to a High Court order, and no revised guidelines have been issued yet.

Udupi Deputy Commissioner Swaroopa T K stated that villagers facing transport issues can submit representations to the RTO or the district administration.

Report by Puneeth Salian.

Keywords: Udupi bus service, RTO permission, KSRTC update, rural connectivity, 24 km bus extension, Udupi district transport