Karnataka Government Increases Bus Fares Across State Corporations

The Karnataka government has increased bus fares across all four state-run transport corporations, with the new rates taking effect from midnight on November 4. The average hike is about 23% for KSRTC and between 33% and 35% for BMTC, covering ordinary, express, long-distance, and airport services.

Details and Reasons

Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh announced the decision, noting that the boards of the four transport corporations had initially sought a fare increase of up to 90%. However, the final revision is lower than the 45% increase recommended by the Public Transport Fare Regulatory Committee, chaired by retired IAS officer Atul Kumar Tiwari. Minister Suresh defended the hike as necessary to save institutions like KSRTC and BMTC rather than make a profit, pointing out that Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra had also raised their fares. He attributed the decision to rising diesel prices, higher spending on spare parts and bus maintenance, and pending wage revisions for employees. The four corporations collectively face annual losses of around ₹2,000 crore.

Specific Fare Changes

KSRTC ordinary bus fares have gone up by up to ₹9 depending on distance. In Bengaluru, the Nelamangala to Majestic fare moved from ₹35 to ₹44, and the Doddaballapur to Majestic fare increased from ₹38 to ₹47. The minimum stage-wise BMTC fare went up from ₹6 to ₹10, while the Hebbal to Kempegowda International Airport bus fare rose from ₹175 to ₹200. KSRTC Express fares increased from ₹81 to ₹100, long-distance fares went up from ₹75 to ₹90, and the maximum fare in AC Vajra buses in Bengaluru rose from ₹75 to ₹90. The minister also clarified that the Shakti Scheme is not responsible for the financial strain, as the government reimburses corporations for free tickets issued to eligible women.

Context

Public transport systems across India often face severe financial shortfalls due to rising fuel costs and operational expenses, prompting periodic adjustments to ticket pricing. State governments frequently subsidize free travel schemes or provide financial support to keep public bus networks running for daily commuters.