Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Sept 6: Growing dissatisfaction is brewing among regular passengers on the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation’s (KSRTC) Mumbai–Mangaluru Airavat service, as ageing buses continue to ply this busy long-distance route despite premium fares nearing Rs 2,000.
Connecting two major commercial hubs, the route remains vital for both business and leisure travellers. However, passengers allege the state-run corporation has neglected the service, allowing ageing multi-axle Volvo coaches to deteriorate, resulting in discomfort, breakdowns, and declining hygiene standards.
“The buses haven’t been upgraded for years. At these prices, we expect at least a comfortable ride,” said Kevin Pinto, a frequent traveller on the route. “The interiors are rattling, the cushions have hardened, and overall maintenance is poor. It feels like the service is stuck in the past,” he said.
Despite charging fares comparable to those on more modern routes, passengers claim the buses in operation are poorly refurbished and decades old, with even basic amenities either dysfunctional or entirely absent.
While newer Airavat 2.0 coaches—featuring upgraded suspension, improved interiors, and working electrical amenities—are being actively deployed on popular routes like Mangaluru–Bengaluru, the Mumbai service continues to be served by ageing B11R Volvo buses, many of which are reportedly well past their prime.
Passengers also point to a disconnect between what KSRTC advertises and what is actually delivered. “The website promises features like mobile charging points and reading lights, but on most buses these don’t work. It’s a mismatch between expectation and reality,” said Pinto.
Frequent breakdowns have become a major issue, leading to delays in reaching destinations, particularly distressing on a journey that spans over 1,000 kilometres. Hygiene is another pressing concern, with visible signs of pest infestation reported by travellers.
“I’ve even spotted cockroaches during a recent journey,” said a passenger who requested anonymity. “It’s unacceptable, especially when we’re paying this much.”
In sharp contrast, KSRTC’s Mangaluru division recently introduced the luxurious Ambaari Dream Class A/C sleeper service to Pune, drawing further criticism from Mumbai-bound passengers who feel their route has been side-lined.
“The Pune route has received all-new coaches while we’re still on buses that should have been retired. It’s disheartening,” Pinto added. “Private operators offer far better comfort even with the speed caps in place.”
Interestingly, some newer KSRTC buses are fitted with speed governors capped at 80 km/h, a move meant for safety. However, passengers argue that private competitors also adhere to the same speed limit while still delivering superior onboard experiences with modern sleeper coaches and punctual service.
KSRTC currently operates just one daily service each way on the Mumbai–Mangaluru route, further limiting options for passengers who prefer public transport over private travel.
Despite the criticisms, many travellers say they stick with KSRTC due to its strong safety record, well-trained crew, and reliable staff behaviour—factors that continue to inspire loyalty, albeit with growing frustration.
Passengers have now collectively urged KSRTC to replace the outdated B11R coaches with the newer Airavat 2.0 fleet, or at the very least, carry out a comprehensive refurbishment of the existing vehicles to ensure safer, cleaner, and more comfortable journeys.
Without timely upgrades, passengers warn that the service risks losing more ground to the private sector—particularly as expectations around comfort, hygiene, and punctuality continue to rise.