KSRTC Proposes Fare Hike Amid Rising Costs

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has proposed a fare increase of 15-20% due to rising fuel and auto part prices, and wage stagnation since 2020. Despite a Rs 295 crore loss in the past three months, the KSRTC plans to acquire new Volvo and regular buses to improve services.

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) chairperson S R Srinivas announced on Sunday that a fare hike in government buses is inevitable.

Srinivas stated that KSRTC has proposed a 15-20% fare increase to the state government during a recent board meeting. The final decision rests with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. 'If KSRTC is to survive, fare hike is inevitable,' he said.

With rising fuel and auto parts costs and employees' salaries unchanged since 2020, Srinivas highlighted the necessity of raising ticket prices. The corporation has faced a Rs 295 crore loss over the last three months.

KSRTC also submitted a proposal to purchase 40 new Volvo buses while procuring 600 regular buses so far. Addressing concerns about fare burden on male passengers since women travel free under the 'Shakti' scheme, Srinivas clarified that the state covers women's travel expenses.