Thiruvananthapuram: A large number of migrant workers from West Bengal are returning to their home state from various parts of Kerala to participate in the ongoing assembly elections, leading to a surge in travel demand and concerns among employers.
According to reports, workers have been leaving in groups from multiple districts including Ernakulam, Alappuzha, Kannur, Kozhikode, and other regions. Many companies have arranged special transportation facilities, including tourist buses, to ensure the return of workers for voting.
The cost of arranging such travel has reportedly gone up significantly, with a single bus trip to West Bengal costing around ₹5 lakh. Travel duration from Kerala to Kolkata by road is estimated to be around two days.
In addition to buses, there has been increased demand for train services, with many workers opting for special trains and other available transport options to reach their home state on time for voting.
Employers across sectors are facing concerns over labour shortages as a result of this массов return. Similar arrangements were reportedly made earlier for elections in Assam as well, indicating a recurring pattern during major elections involving migrant workers.
The large-scale movement highlights the strong electoral participation among migrant workers, many of whom prioritize voting despite work commitments in other states.