1,749 villages lack State-run bus connectivity in Karnataka

1,749 villages in Karnataka are without bus services provided by the state-run transport corporations, according to data from the Transport Department. The issue stems from two main factors: villages lacking suitable roads for buses or heavy vehicles, and a shortage of vehicles, drivers, and other operational staff at the four corporations — KSRTC, BMTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC.

These four corporations are responsible for covering 32,977 villages across the state, but currently, only 31,228 villages have State-run bus connectivity. The remaining 1,749 villages are facing significant challenges in terms of accessibility and socio-economic development. With the upcoming financial year's action plan focusing on establishing new schedules and providing necessary bus facilities, the RTCs are actively working to procure additional vehicles and hire personnel to address the connectivity gaps.

Professor M.N. Srihari, a transport expert, emphasizes that the lack of reliable public transport in remote villages hinders socio-economic development, affecting students' access to education, healthcare, and women's economic opportunities. He stresses that expanding the rural bus fleet and improving road infrastructure are essential for bridging the urban-rural divide.