WATCH: Kerala Govt Bus Driver Wears Helmet While Driving Amid Bharat Bandh Chaos
A video of Shibu Thomas, a Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) driver wearing a motorcycle helmet while on duty, has gone viral, offering a striking image of the challenges faced by transport workers during Wednesday’s Bharat Bandh. The incident occurred on a KSRTC bus plying the Pathanamthitta–Kollam route.
Kerala Bus Driver Wears Helmet
In the video, the helmet was worn by Thomas purely as a precautionary measure, fearing unrest along the route amid the nationwide general strike called by 10 central trade unions.
Despite the creative attempt at safety, the bus was reportedly stopped at Adoor by bandh supporters. Shibu and his team pleaded for safe passage, citing the presence of patients en route to hospitals, including the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC). However, protestors denied the request and instead arranged alternate transport for those in need, refusing to allow the KSRTC vehicle to continue, reported On Manorama.
Aji Thomas, State VP BJP Minority Morcha said, "KSRTC driver wearing a helmet on the day of the general strike. Shibu Thomas, who drove a bus from Pathanamthitta to Kollam, wore a helmet. If the strike workers throw stones, the only loss will be Shibu and his family. KSRTC or the government will not be with them. Congratulations to Shibu for taking precautions๐๐"
ALSO READ: Bharat Bandh Hits Daily Life In Kerala; Protests & Service Disruptions Across Southern States — Updates
The image of a government bus driver donning a helmet in the line of duty resonated widely on social media.
Meanwhile, similar scenes were reported from other states. In Siliguri, West Bengal, drivers of state-run buses were also seen wearing helmets, highlighting shared concerns for safety during the nationwide strike that disrupted transport, banking, and postal services.
states