Concession pass: KSRTC to make the ‘smart' switch
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The KSRTC is set to roll out student concession passes as smart cards. Students from classes 1 to 12 will be able to use
the chip-based card for travelling on a specified route for 25 days a month.
'The smart cards would be introduced within 20 days,' Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar said.
'KSRTC has decided to replace paper passes with smart cards embedded with chips. These can store route details and track the number of travel days. Conductors will validate the card by scanning it on the ticketing machine,' he said, adding that the paper system was laborious and the new format would be more efficient. Plus One students will be eligible for a smart card with two-year validity. The annual fee of the concession card will remain unchanged at `110. KSRTC also plans to extend the smart card facility to persons with disabilities.
Around four lakh general-purpose travel cards will be introduced for the public and made available in the market.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Hindu
13 hours ago
- The Hindu
KSRTC electric buses proposed inside Puthur Zoological Park
A team led by Revenue Minister K. Rajan visited the Puthur Zoological Park on Sunday (June 29) to conduct a feasibility study for operating KSRTC electric buses within the park premises. The initiative aims to enhance transport convenience for visitors, especially those who may find walking the park's 6.5 km stretch challenging. The team included KSRTC Managing Director Pramoj Shankar and officials from the Revenue, Forest, and Transport departments. The visit follows a high-level meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram, attended by Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran, Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar, and departmental officials, where it was decided to explore the possibility of using electric buses within the park. The buses will operate on a loop inside the park, starting near the ticket counter, with stops at designated points where passengers can hop on and off. With a single ticket, visitors can explore various sections of the zoo, reboarding the bus at each stop to continue their journey. There are also discussions on introducing open-top KSRTC vehicles from Thrissur city to Puthur Zoo as part of a tourism circuit. Mr. Rajan also announced that 37 new species of animals and birds, including those not currently found in Kerala zoos, will be introduced to the Puthur facility. These include exotic species like macaws, cockatoos, anacondas, African elands, zebras, and giraffes, to be brought in from abroad and other States in five phases within this year. Meanwhile, works for the safari zoo and animal enclosures are progressing, with construction tenders expected to be finalised soon. The pet zoo and virtual zoo —features designed especially for children — are also in the implementation stage.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Devotees celebrate Aashada Friday at Chamundi amid long queues
1 2 Mysuru: The spiritual essence of the Hindu month of Aashada gripped Mysuru on Friday as thousands of devotees ascended the Chamundi Hills to observe the first Aashada Shukravara (Friday during the month of Aashada) with devotion and reverence at Sri Chamundeshwari Temple. Undeterred by light showers and a chilly breeze, devotees began gathering as early as 2.30 am at the hill shrine, climbing the hills to seek the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari. The temple premises were adorned with vibrant floral arrangements, green festoons, and illuminated lamps, creating a serene and divine atmosphere. The day commenced with Panchamruta Abhisheka and 'archane', followed by the goddess being beautifully decorated in the 'Mahalakshmi Alankara'. Compared to previous years, the footfall witnessed a significant surge, prompting the district administration to implement robust security and crowd control measures, especially in the wake of deaths in a stampede incident at Chinnaswamy Stadium last month. As per tradition, private vehicles were barred from accessing the hills. To facilitate smooth travel, KSRTC operated free shuttle services from Lalitha Mahal Palace Grounds to the hilltop. Special darshan tickets priced at Rs 300 and Rs 2,000 were made available for devotees at the Lalitha Mahal Palace Grounds. The premium Rs 2,000 ticket included air-conditioned transport, quick access for darshan, and a prasadam kit, including a Chamundeshwari idol, laddu, bottled water, and a souvenir bag. Despite meticulous planning, the sheer volume of devotees posed challenges for the police and support staff. Even the special darshan lines saw heavy crowds throughout the day. Some of the devotees who planned to go for general darshan, after seeing the sea of devotees, opted for the special entrance for Rs 300 and even Rs 2,000. People not only from across the district, but also from various districts across the state and from various other states visited the temple. Deputy commissioner of police (law & order) M Mutturaj said, "Compared to last year, the number of devotees was considerably higher. However, we managed to provide facilities. At any given time, the crowd ranged between 15,000 and 20,000." Among the prominent personalities who visited the temple on the first Aashada were former minister Revanna and actor Shruthi. No badam milk and dry fruits after special darshan: Devotee Santosh, who came from Shivamogga, said, "Though the authorities mentioned that the devotees would be given badam milk and dry fruits for those opting for special darshan, they failed to keep their word. There was no proper drinking water facility." Satish, who came from Bengaluru, said, "Even after giving Rs 2,000, we had to wait for nearly 2 hours. But still, compared to last year, there were some changes, like a separate queue for Dharma Darshana, a separate line for Rs 300, and a separate line for Rs 2,000."
India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
You're Going to Kochi? Don't Spend a Rupee Until You See These 7 Travel Hacks!
Besides being the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is a touristy hub with historical and cultural significance along with beautiful scenery all around. From strolls along the cobbled streets to seeing the Chinese fishing nets in action, and tasting the spicy seafood cuisines, Kochi has plenty to offer. The wonder that this coastal city embodies can also be achieved without spending a fortune. With the tips and suggestions offered in this article, you will be able to visit Kochi on a budget. This guide covers everything from both free activities and affordable dining options to make the most of your trip. Smart: Budget-Friendly Transport Options Getting around Kochi does not have to break the bank if you know a few simple mobile tips. Rather than hiring taxis and cars, use public transportation. You can easily get around the city with the many ferries and buses available around Kochi. They connect to all important sightseeing locations and are much cheaper than other options. Use Local Buses: KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses are a budget-friendly means of transportation. You can travel from Fort Kochi to Ernakulam for as low as ₹10 – ₹20. Hop on a Ferry:The ferry rides connecting Fort Kochi, Ernakulam, and Willingdon Island are also scenic, with tickets starting at a nominal price of ₹4. Rent a Bicycle:Many hostels and cheap hotels rent bicycles for a fee of ₹50 – ₹100 per day. Use Auto-Rickshaws Wisely:If an auto is a must, ensure they give you an upfront price. If not, ask them to use the meter to avoid being overcharged. Budget Stays: Affordable Accommodation in Kochi From hostels to homestays, Kochi has a variety of inexpensive options for accommodation. Hostels in Fort Kochi: Dorms at places like Happy camper and Zostel cost around ₹ 300 – 600 per night. Homestays:For those travelling on a budget, cabins are available at various local homes at ₹ 800 – 1200 a night along with traditional breakfast. Guesthouses near Ernakulam: Affordable guesthouses are located around MG road on the mainland which charges ₹ 1000 – 1500 per night. Couchsurfing:This goes to the extreme when trying to travel on a budget, but staying with a local for free is a perfect way to meet new people. Like a Local: Cheap and Delicious Food Kochi's food scene is vibrant, and you don't need to splurge to enjoy mouth-watering meals. Try Local Eateries: Small cafes or roadside food stalls serve traditional Kerala dishes for only ₹50-₹100. Eat at Toddy Shops:These roadside eateries provide local Kerala cuisines like spicy fish curry with tapioca for ₹150-₹250. Go for South Indian Breakfasts:Eat dosa, idli, and appam, paired with coconut chutney for INR ₹30 – ₹70 at local eateries. Seafood at Fort Kochi Beach: Purchase fresh fish from the stalls, then head to a seaside shack where you can get it cooked for only ₹200-₹300. for Free: Cost-Free Attractions and Experiences While some things require a fee, Kochi has loads of free activities where you can enjoy its beauty and culture while spending no money at all. Walk Around Fort Kochi: The streets have colonial buildings, and wonderful graffiti that serve as perfect spots to absorb the local culture without spending any money. Watch the Chinese Fishing Nets: Visit the shore early morning or around sunset to see fishermen use the famous nets for free. Visit Churches and Temples: These sites can be visited with zero expenses. St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, and the Paradesi Synagogue are available for free or a small fee. Explore Jew Town:This tourist attraction has no admission fee; you can stroll around the antique stores and spice shops. Watch a Sunset at Marine Drive: Everyone gets the opportunity to watch the sunset. All you need to do is sit on a bench and watch the skies turn golden above the backwaters for a perfect way to finish the day. Smart: Budget-Friendly Souvenirs Kochi is well-known for souvenirs but make sure that you do not fall into a tourist trap. Head to Broadway Market: This lively market at Ernakulam is ideal for buying spices, handicrafts, and apparel for much lower than retail prices. Buy from Street Vendors: Street stalls and small shops often have exquisite jewelry, coir products and paintings for much lower than larger establishments. Bargain at Mattancherry:If you are in the market for artwork or antiques, feel free to haggle a bit. The prices are almost always overpriced for tourists. Skip the Malls: Besides Lulu Mall for window shopping, you are far more likely to find better prices at local shops. 6. Enjoy Cultural Experiences for Cheap Kochi's art and culture is abundant and relish it without incurring significant costs. Kathakali Shows: A few cultural centers provide low-cost (&₹200-₹400) or free performances if you reserve in advance. Visit Kerala Folklore Museum: This museum is very affordable (₹100) and is excellent for discovering the heritage of Kerala. Attend Festivals:Onam and Biennale are popular, and many free citywide cultural shows and exhibitions occur. Join a Free Walking Tour: Some locals conduct free heritage walks (optional tips) around Fort Kochi. Final Thoughts Visiting Kochi on a budget is not only feasible; it is quite enjoyable! Along with reasonable public transport, shared autos, inexpensive places to stay, great food for low prices, and no entry fee sites, further add to why one would want to visit this coastal city. By these few easy tips, not only will you spend less, but you will enjoy Kochi as it is intended to be experienced. So get your bags, set the budget and get ready to enjoy this beautiful coastal city with peace of mind.
