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 instructed the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to compensate a passenger ₹13,000 for the inconvenience caused by the failure of the air-conditioning system in one of its buses. The passenger, Sachith K.H., a resident of Biligeri village in Madikeri taluk, undertook a journey from Madikeri to Bengaluru on KSRTC’s EV Power Plus bus on November 6, 2025.

Sachith reported that the air-conditioning system malfunctioned during the trip, resulting in significant discomfort and breathing difficulties. Despite informing the bus conductor about the issue, no corrective measures were taken. Furthermore, the bus was designed without windows that could be opened, exacerbating the situation.

Seeking redress, Sachith filed a complaint with the Kodagu District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, demanding compensation for the hardship he endured. The commission noted that passengers traveling in air-conditioned buses pay higher fares, inclusive of taxes, specifically for the comfort provided by the AC facility.

The commission emphasized that in cases where the air-conditioning system fails, KSRTC is obligated to arrange an alternative solution, such as facilitating travel in another air-conditioned bus from the Mysuru bus stand. Acting president Renukamba C. and member Gourammanni presided over the case and directed KSRTC to pay ₹13,000 as compensation, along with an interest of 9% per annum.

Published: June 17, 2026, 10:36 pm IST