Key Facts
The Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to pay a compensation of ₹13,000 to a passenger who suffered due to a malfunctioning air-conditioning system in a bus. The incident occurred on November 6, 2025, when Sachith K.H., a resident of Biligeri village in Madikeri taluk, traveled from Madikeri to Bengaluru in a KSRTC EV Power Plus bus.
Details of the Incident
Sachith K.H. boarded the air-conditioned bus at Madikeri, expecting a comfortable journey. However, soon after departure, he noticed that the AC system was not working properly. Despite bringing the issue to the attention of the bus conductor, no remedial action was taken. The bus lacked operable windows, which worsened the situation, causing the passenger considerable discomfort and breathing difficulties.
Consumer Complaint and Commission's Observation
Dissatisfied with the service, Sachith filed a complaint before the Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission. The commission, comprising acting president Renukamba C. and member Gourammanni, observed that passengers traveling in AC buses pay a higher fare specifically for the air-conditioning facility. If the system fails after the ticket is purchased, it is the transport corporation's duty to provide an alternative arrangement, such as facilitating travel in another AC bus from the Mysuru bus stand.
Compensation and Interest
Holding KSRTC liable for deficiency in service, the commission directed the corporation to pay a total compensation of ₹13,000, along with interest at 9% per annum from the date of the complaint until the payment is made.
What This Means for Passengers
This ruling reinforces the rights of passengers who pay for premium services like air-conditioning. It emphasizes that transport corporations must ensure the promised amenities are functional, and failure to do so can lead to legal consequences. Passengers facing similar issues are encouraged to document their complaints and seek redressal through consumer forums.
FAQ
- Why was KSRTC fined ₹13,000? KSRTC was fined for failing to provide a functioning air-conditioning system in a bus, causing discomfort to a passenger.
- What did the consumer commission order? The commission ordered KSRTC to pay ₹13,000 compensation with 9% annual interest to the passenger.
- What was the passenger's complaint? The passenger alleged that the AC failed during the journey, causing breathing difficulties, and no alternative was provided.
Source: www.thehindu.com