KOCHI: With Onam approaching, travel costs between Bengaluru and Kochi have surged, causing concern among Malayalis planning to return home for the festival. Private luxury bus operators have significantly increased ticket prices, with rates soaring to over Rs 3,000 for a one-way journey.
For instance, on September 12, tickets for AC luxury buses range from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,200, and prices are expected to rise further as the date approaches. Private operators such as ‘Murahara Travels’ and ‘Yas Tours and Travels’ are already charging Rs 3,515 and Rs 4,000 per seat, respectively. In contrast, flights offer a more economical alternative, with prices starting at Rs 2,515 for a one-hour journey on September 12. Evening flights from carriers like IndiGo and Air India Express are available for Rs 3,090 to Rs 3,298, making them a cheaper option compared to bus travel. However, flight prices are anticipated to increase on September 13, with rates beginning at Rs 3,615.
Train tickets for popular night trains, such as the Bengaluru-Kanniyakumari Island Express, are fully booked, with waiting lists reaching as high as 235 in the Sleeper category. Even day trains and other services are facing heavy demand, leaving few available options for travelers.
To address the surge in demand, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has announced special services, including 60 additional non-AC Super Deluxe buses operating between September 9 and 20. These buses will run daily with departures from Bengaluru and Ernakulam, and also between Chennai and Ernakulam. Flexi charges and end-to-end fare systems will apply.
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