MSRTC Cancels Diwali Fare Hike, Bringing Passenger Relief

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has cancelled the proposed 10% fare hike for Diwali, a decision providing relief to travelers amid upcoming assembly elections. Despite financial pressures including employee bonuses, the move coincides with toll exemptions announced for Mumbai-bound light motor vehicles.

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has made a significant decision to cancel the planned 10% fare hike initially scheduled for the Diwali season. This move, announced on Monday, brings a wave of relief for passengers preferring to travel via state transport buses during the festive period.

The announcement comes at a time when Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has declared an exemption from toll payments for light motor vehicles entering Mumbai. While this decision aligns with the upcoming assembly elections, it poses financial challenges for MSRTC, which had anticipated an additional revenue of Rs 70 crore to Rs 80 crore had the fare increase been implemented.

Despite the corporation's financial strain, which includes Rs 40 crore in employee bonuses, the state government opted to halt the fare hike. Traditionally, the MSRTC raises fares around festive seasons; however, this year, the state secretariat overruled the transport body's recommendation for a fare increase.

(With inputs from agencies.)