Performance evaluation of state road transport corporations (SRTCs) in India: An insights from the literature review

State Road Transport Corporations (SRTCs) play a crucial role in India's public transportation system, serving as the backbone of affordable mobility for millions of citizens. This literature review examines the performance evaluation methodologies, challenges, and outcomes of SRTCs in India based on existing research. The study synthesizes findings from various academic sources to provide comprehensive insights into the operational, financial, and service quality dimensions of SRTC performance. Through systematic analysis of published literature, this review identifies key performance indicators commonly used for SRTC evaluation, including financial metrics (revenue per kilometer, cost recovery ratio), operational metrics (fleet utilization, passenger kilometers), and service quality measures (punctuality, safety, customer satisfaction). The findings reveal that most SRTCs face significant challenges in financial sustainability, operational efficiency, and service delivery quality. Common issues include an aging fleet, poor infrastructure, inefficient route planning, and competition from private operators. However, successful interventions such as technology adoption, route optimization, and public-private partnerships have shown promising results in improving SRTC performance. This review concludes that a multi-dimensional performance evaluation framework incorporating financial, operational, social, and environmental indicators is essential for a comprehensive assessment of SRTC performance. The insights provided serve as a foundation for policymakers, researchers, and transportation planners to develop effective strategies for enhancing SRTC operations and service delivery.