Failure of AC system in bus: Consumer court directs KSRTC to pay ₹13,000 compensation to passenger
The Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed KSRTC to pay a compensation worth ₹13,000 to a passenger who had complained about the failure
The Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has directed KSRTC to pay a compensation worth ₹13,000 to a passenger who had complained about the failure of the air-conditioning system in the bus he travelled in. Sachith K.H., a resident of Biligeri village in Madikeri taluk, travelled from Madikeri to Bengaluru in KSRTC’s EV Power Plus bus on November 6, 2025.
He alleged that the air-conditioning system in the bus failed to function properly during the journey, causing him considerable discomfort and breathing difficulties. Although the issue was brought to the notice of the bus conductor, no remedial action was taken. The bus also did not have windows that could be opened, further aggravating the situation. Subsequently, Mr. Sachith filed a complaint before the Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, seeking compensation for the inconvenience and hardship suffered during the journey.
The commission observed that passengers travelling in air-conditioned buses pay a higher fare, inclusive of taxes, specifically for the AC facility. If the air-conditioning system fails after the passenger has paid for the ticket, it is the responsibility of the transport corporation to provide an alternative arrangement, such as facilitating travel in another air-conditioned bus of the corporation from the Mysuru bus stand, the commission observed.
Accordingly, the commission comprising acting president Renukamba C. and member Gourammanni, directed the KSRTC to pay a total compensation of ₹13,000, along with interest at 9% per annum.
The BriefWire