Commuters across Karnataka are bracing for a potential second bus fare hike in less than two years. The state government is set to announce a decision on the proposed revision on November 4, following a meeting between Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh and senior officials on November 3.
This move comes after the Karnataka Cabinet previously approved a 15% increase in bus fares for the four state-owned transport corporations, including KSRTC and BMTC, effective January 2, 2025. The new proposal aims to address the financial difficulties faced by these corporations, which cite escalating operating costs, particularly due to rising petrol and diesel prices, and pressure to meet employee salaries.
Why Another Fare Hike?
Minister Krishna Byre Gowda confirmed that the Cabinet discussed the proposal after persistent demands from the struggling transport corporations. He noted that increased fuel costs since January have made a fare adjustment necessary for the sustainability of services.
The four key corporations affected are the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC), and North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC). All have reported difficulties in covering operational expenses.
Regulatory Review and Broader Context
A Fare Regulatory Committee, led by Atul Kumar Tiwari, has already submitted a report reviewing the financial health and functioning of these transport corporations. While the government has yet to disclose the specific percentage of the proposed increase, the push highlights ongoing challenges in public transport funding.
The potential bus fare hike closely follows another significant rise in household expenses for Karnataka residents: an Rs 8 per litre increase in Nandini milk prices, approved by the Cabinet and effective November 1. This broader context of rising essential service costs is likely to impact many families across the state.