Kozhikode: The Nava Kerala Bus resumed operations on Wednesday after a comprehensive overhaul and several modifications, and it is receiving full-capacity bookings.

The Garuda Premium service now operates from Kozhikode to Bengaluru, attracting a full house of passengers on its maiden trip after relaunch. The timings and ticket fares have been revised, with the bus departing Kozhikode at 8.25 am and beginning its return journey from Bengaluru at 10.25 pm. The service is operated along the Bathery-Mysuru route.

This luxury bus, used by Chief Minister Pinrayi Vijayan and ministers for the Nava Kerala Yatra in 2023, commenced passenger operations on May 5, 2024, after lying idle for a long period. However, it was soon discontinued due to low passenger demand.

Significant changes to ensure passenger convenience have been implemented in the recent modification. The bus now accommodates 11 additional seats, bringing its total seating capacity to 37. The onboard washroom has been retained, while the hydraulic lift door has been replaced with a standard door, and the rear-side door has been removed.

Initially, the bus had witnessed high demand, but bookings dwindled over time due to inconvenient schedules and steep fares. Addressing these issues, the service has now been relaunched with revised timings and a more affordable fare structure.

The reduced ticket fares are expected to provide much-needed relief to passengers. The base fare from Bengaluru to Kozhikode is now Rs 900, down from the previous Rs 1,256. Including reservation and GST charges, the total ticket cost is Rs 968.

The service also accommodates fare stages at Mysuru, Bathery, Kalpetta, and Thamarassery. Earlier, passengers were required to pay the full fare of Rs 1,256 regardless of their boarding or deboarding points. The revised rates are as follows: Bengaluru to Bathery: Rs 671, Bengaluru to Kalpetta: Rs. 731, Bengaluru to Thamarassery: Rs 831, Bengaluru to Kozhikode: Rs 968, Mysuru to Kozhikode: Rs 560

The bus, procured for Rs 1.05 crore, drew public attention due to its luxury features, sparking political scrutiny and criticism for purchasing it when the state was grappling with severe financial crises.