Karnataka: KSRTC offers just Rs 150 for bus Ayudha Puja; staff question this miserly allocation

As the festive season of Ayudha Puja approaches, concerns have been raised over the inadequate funds allocated for the worship of KSRTC buses. Every year, the Transport Department provides a small sum to bus drivers and conductors for the ritualistic worship of buses, a tradition observed on the day of Ayudha Puja. However, this year, employees are questioning the department’s allocation of just Rs 150 per bus, which they argue is insufficient to carry out even the basic aspects of the ceremony.

Also read: Karnataka unveils ‘Vision Group’ to restore 34,000 neglected muzrai temples

The Rs 150 allotted for each KSRTC bus is seen as barely enough to cover the cost of garlands, with a single Marigold flower costing between Rs 200 to Rs 300 during the festival season. As a result, many drivers and operators are voicing their frustration, asking whether the department is so financially strained that it cannot afford to provide adequate funds for this cultural practice.

Disparity in the allocation

Further fueling the discontent, employees note that the Transport Department has earmarked significantly higher amounts for divisional and regional workshops—Rs 2,000 and Rs 4,000, respectively—highlighting the disparity in the allocation. Despite increased passenger traffic and the additional revenue brought in after the Shakti Yojana, the transport staff finds themselves spending their own money to celebrate the festival.

The employees are now urging the Transport Minister to reconsider this miserly allocation, which they feel undermines the importance of the annual Ayudha Puja.