The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has proposed a 15-20% increase in bus fares. The corporation’s chairman described the fare hike as “inevitable” and disclosed that the board has already passed a resolution to revise the fares. The next step involves seeking approval from the state government.
“The last fare revision occurred in 2019-20 when diesel was priced at Rs 60 per litre. Today, it has surged past Rs 93 per litre,” stated the chairman. He emphasised the significant rise in operational costs, which include increased staff salaries and maintenance expenses. “KSRTC is providing essential services, and without a fare hike, the corporation cannot remain viable,” he added. The corporation has reported a loss of Rs 295 crore in the current financial year.
The KSRTC official highlighted the urgent need to induct new buses into their fleet, which comprises 8,000 buses. Many of these vehicles have clocked between 9 lakh to 12 lakh kilometres, while about 450 air-conditioned buses have exceeded 20 lakh kilometres. “Considering these factors, a fare revision is crucial. As an autonomous institution, we cannot depend on government support perpetually,” he said. Addressing concerns about the proposed fare hike’s impact on passengers, particularly men, the chairman noted that the state government is reimbursing KSRTC for expenditures under the Shakti Scheme, which provides bus services. Additionally, the government offers concessional rates for students, soldiers, the physically challenged, and other groups. The fare revision would also lead to increased expenditures under the Shakti Scheme, which will be covered by the state government.
This move to increase fares comes at a time when KSRTC is grappling with mounting losses and ageing infrastructure. The corporation’s financial predicament underscores the broader challenges faced by public transport operators in balancing service delivery with economic viability. The proposed fare hike, while burdensome for passengers, is seen as a necessary step to maintain and improve the quality of public transport services in Karnataka. By pushing for this fare revision, KSRTC aims to stabilise its finances, upgrade its fleet, and continue offering reliable transport services to the public. The state government’s decision on this proposal will be keenly awaited by both the corporation and its passengers, as it will significantly influence the future of public transportation in the region.
