KSRTC launches gender-based ticketing system in buses across Kerala

Under the new system, conductors will record whether passengers are women, men or children while issuing tickets through Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs). According to a KSRTC circular issued on Friday, the ETMs have been updated with separate options for women, men and children. The category selected by conductors will also be printed on the ticket. Officials said the move is aimed at collecting data on the number of women travelling daily on KSRTC buses. The development comes after the UDF, which secured 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly, promised free bus travel for women during the election campaign. The new government is expected to be formed soon after the Congress finalises its chief ministerial candidate. Meanwhile, some conductors have expressed concern that entering passenger categories could slow down ticketing, particularly during peak hours and on crowded routes.