Following recent increases in milk, petrol, and diesel prices, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has proposed a significant hike in bus ticket fares. KSRTC is considering a fare increase of 15-20% to address the financial challenges it faces. In Tumakuru, Gubbi MLA and KSRTC chairman S.R. Srinivas announced that a proposal for this fare hike has been submitted to the government following a board meeting.
Based on the reports from Tv9 Kannada, Srinivas noted that the last fare increase occurred in 2019, and it has been five years since. Given the recent rise in fuel prices, an increase in bus fares has become unavoidable. Additionally, to accommodate salary hikes and other benefits for employees, this fare adjustment is necessary. The salary revision for KSRTC employees, due in 2020, had been delayed, but it will now be implemented in 2024, further necessitating the fare increase. KSRTC reported a loss of ₹295 crore in the last quarter. To support operations, a proposal for 40 new Volvo buses has been submitted to the government, along the procurement of 600 regular buses.
“The decision now rests with the Chief Minister, and there is no concern that male passengers will be unduly burdened by the increase. Under the Shakti scheme, the fare for female passengers will be covered by the government, ensuring the KSRTC remains viable.” Srinivas emphasized to Public TV, that to sustain the KSRTC, the fare increase is essential.
NWKRTC Chairman’s statement on financial losses
Meanwhile, NWKRTC Chairman Raju Kage attributed the corporation’s financial losses to the Shakti scheme, which offers free bus travel for women. He mentioned that the prices of diesel and bus spare parts have also risen significantly. NWKRTC has not increased bus fares in the past decade. To mitigate these losses, NWKRTC is considering leasing out renovated old buildings owned by the corporation. Kage reaffirmed the necessity of contemplating a bus fare increase to sustain NWKRTC’s operations.
The proposals for fare hikes reflect the urgent need for both KSRTC and NWKRTC to address their financial difficulties and ensure the continuity of public transportation services in Karnataka.
The recent decision by the Congress-led government in Karnataka to raise the retail sales tax on fuels has sparked widespread public outrage. Effective from June 15th, Saturday noon, petrol prices surged by Rs 3 per liter, with diesel prices escalating by Rs 3.50 per liter. This abrupt hike has intensified financial burdens on vehicle owners across the state, exacerbating the challenges faced by lower and middle-class citizens already grappling with economic strain.
In Karnataka, the Congress government’s implementation of illogical schemes and biased decisions continues to inflict severe hardship on its people. The steep rise in fuel prices underscores a pattern of policy-making that appears disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary citizens. This move not only adds to the financial woes of individuals and businesses but also raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to equitable economic policies. As Karnataka navigates through these turbulent times, the need for transparent and responsible governance that prioritizes the welfare of all citizens has never been more urgent.
