The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has rolled out a compassionate initiative allowing cancer patients to travel free of cost for treatment purposes across the state. The official order, issued on October 29 by KSRTC Chairman and Managing Director Pramoj Sanker, grants free travel on all categories of KSRTC buses—from ordinary to superfast services—for chemotherapy, radiation, and other hospital visits. This move fulfills the earlier promise made by Transport Minister K. B. Ganesh Kumar to support cancer patients struggling with travel expenses during prolonged treatment cycles.

As per the new order, eligible patients must apply for a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) card through the official website, keralartcit.com. Applicants are required to upload essential documents, including a passport-size photograph, Aadhaar card, residential proof, and a valid medical certificate issued by an oncologist. Once the details are verified by the KSRTC headquarters, the RFID card will be delivered directly to the applicant’s residence by local officials. This card will allow free bus travel for all treatment-related journeys within Kerala.

KSRTC has also issued a strong warning against misuse of the scheme, stating that any individual found submitting fake medical records will face strict legal action, and their travel card will be immediately cancelled. Previously, cancer patients were entitled to a 50% fare concession for trips to the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), but this new measure marks a significant upgrade in welfare support. The initiative has been widely appreciated across Kerala for its humane approach and its potential to ease the financial burden on patients undergoing long-term treatment.