T’puram: As part of the state govt’s 100-day action plan to improve public transport, KSRTC has launched a sponsorship scheme to add buses to its fleet and replace ageing vehicles. Institutions and individuals will now be allowed to sponsor buses to help KSRTC provide better travel facilities, including in rural areas and replace vehicles that have completed their service life.Sponsors will be allowed to display their names or brands on the exterior and interior of the buses for 10 years, identify the vehicles as sponsored by them and suggest routes. KSRTC has issued guidelines for the initiative.LSGIs, cooperative institutions, companies, trusts, social organizations, clubs and commercial establishments can take part in the scheme. CSR funds can also be used, said KSRTC.KSRTC will accept 9-15m buses, including AC premium buses, AC seaters, AC sleepers, buses suitable for superfast service and fast passenger services. Sponsors may buy a bus and hand it over to KSRTC or provide funds to the corporation. If financial assistance is given, KSRTC will procure the vehicle through a tender process.Buses obtained through the scheme will be registered in the name of KSRTC’s MD and become the corporation’s permanent assets. But these vehicles will retain KSRTC’s standard colour scheme. KSRTC will retain authority over maintenance, insurance, ticket revenue and staff appointments.“If a sponsor suggests routes that can replace existing services, suitable adjustments will be made. If a new service is requested, it will be considered only if fuel costs and basic infra are made available with the help of local bodies. A separate memorandum of understanding may be signed for this purpose,” said KSRTCHowever, the corporation will have the authority to revise schedules and routes based on financial conditions and public demand.Subject to rules, sponsor ads can cover up to 60% of the bus’s exterior, excluding the front portion, window panes and windshield. Ads can be put up in 30% of the bus’s interior space. Additionally, the name of the institution may be displayed on the vehicle with the words “Sponsored by”.But religious, political, unlawful or divisive ads will not be allowed. All ad designs must receive KSRTC’s nod. If any structural modification becomes necessary, the sponsor will be informed in advance. KSRTC has designated marketing representatives in all districts to handle enquiries about the scheme.
