Commuters all over the state, who have been already burdened by the increasing prices of diesel and petrol, will have to brace up to meet an increase in bus fare. It is learnt that state transport corporations run by the government have been suffering an average loss of Rs 186 crore per month as diesel price has gone up steeply during the last three months. As this loss is expected to go up further, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation has submitted a proposal to the government, seeking permission to hike bus fares by 18 percent.
The government is examining this proposal. Sources said that instead of 18 percent, the government might permit a lower rate of hike in fare. Transport minister, D C Thammanna, briefing about the financial condition of the transport corporations, revealed that the corporations had approached the government with a request for fare hike about two and half months back. He said that the proposal would be discussed with the chief minister and a final decision would be taken within a week. He added that when taking a decision on increasing the bus fare, it will be ensured that the passengers are not unduly burdened, and the transport corporations too do not face heavy losses. He said that on account of diesel price hike, the transport corporations are facing financial stress and to meet this situation, they are left with no other option other than increasing bus fare.
Thammanna stated that 40 new buses will be acquired by the transport corporations as there is good demand for sleeper coaches on long distance routes. “We propose to run additional buses to far away destinations during the holiday season. In phases, the menace of private buses will be reined in. The confusion on free passes to students will be addressed within a week,” he assured.
