KSRTC begins immediate removal of tobacco ads from its buses following CM’s office intervention

Bengaluru, Apr 20: In a swift response to public concern, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has initiated the removal of advertisements promoting tobacco, cigarettes, and alcohol from its buses, following directions issued by the Chief Minister’s Office.

The action was prompted after a concerned citizen raised objections on social media. On April 8, a user named Siraj tagged the chief minister’s special duty officer, Dr Vaishnavi K, on X (formerly Twitter), sharing an image of a KSRTC bus carrying a rear panel ad promoting a smokeless tobacco product popular among youth.

Siraj wrote: “Displaying advertisements of harmful products like tobacco, cigarettes, and alcohol on government buses is not in public interest. It would be better for society if such promotions are avoided on state-owned transport.”

Taking immediate cognizance, Dr Vaishnavi K forwarded the concern to KSRTC, directing the chief traffic manager (CTM) to take necessary action. The CTM promptly issued notices to the respective advertising agencies instructing them to remove the ads without delay.

In a follow-up letter dated April 17 to the CM’s office, the CTM confirmed that notices had been served to the advertising agency authorised to display ads on KSRTC buses. The process of removing all such advertisements is currently underway.

The move has been welcomed by citizens and health advocates, who say it sends a strong message about the government's commitment to public health and responsible advertising practices.