Punjab Transport Hikes Bus Fares Amid Fuel Price Surge

The Punjab transport department has increased bus fares due to rising fuel prices. Ordinary buses now charge 145 paise per km, while HVAC buses charge 174 paise. Integral coaches will cost 261 paise and super integral coaches 290 paise per km. The decision follows recent VAT increases on petrol and diesel.

The Punjab transport department announced a fare hike for buses on Saturday, attributing the increase to surging fuel prices.

This decision comes shortly after the state government raised VAT on petrol and diesel by 61 paise and 92 paise per litre, respectively. As per the transport department, ordinary bus fares will see an increase of 23 paise per kilometre, bringing the new rate to 145 paise per km.

Additionally, HVAC bus fares have gone up by 28 paise to 174 paise per km, while integral and super integral coach fares have been increased to 261 paise and 290 paise per km respectively, marking a rise of 41 paise and 46 paise per km.

(With inputs from agencies.)