Thiruvananthapuram | Kerala Transport Minister C P John on Thursday launched the state-run KSRTC's women-only "Pink Bus" service and said the initiative aimed to ensure safe and convenient travel for women, particularly those working late hours.

The state-level launch of the service was held at the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) Central Depot here as part of the state government's 100-day action programme.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said the government's objective was to create an environment where women could travel independently and safely.

He said special night services would be operated at 8 pm and 10 pm to facilitate the safe commute of women working at Technopark and other establishments, adding that the scheme would soon be expanded to other districts.

The routes and schedules would be finalised scientifically based on passenger demand, he said.

Besides the night services, Pink Buses would also operate during the day to provide safe transport for women arriving by train, mothers travelling with young children and patients heading to the Government Medical College Hospital, the minister said.

representatives, officials and passengers attended the function.

John said KSRTC had emerged as a model in promoting the use of public transport and had earned the confidence and acceptance of the public.

He also dismissed concerns that the implementation of free travel schemes would affect the timely payment of salaries to KSRTC employees.

KSRTC Chairman and Managing Director P S Pramoj Shankar, public