Karnataka Cabinet Approves 15% Bus Fare Hike Amid Rising Costs

The Karnataka cabinet has decided to increase bus fares by 15% for state-owned transport corporations to address rising operational costs. The increase will take effect on January 5, reflecting higher fuel and staff expenses. The decision ensures fares remain lower than those in neighboring states.

The Karnataka cabinet announced on Thursday a 15% fare increase for state-owned transport corporations. The decision comes as a response to rising operational costs, including fuel prices and staff expenditures, according to Karnataka Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil.

The fare increase affects the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC), and Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC). The changes will be implemented from January 5 to keep fares competitive with neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.

Despite the fare hike, the 'Shakti' scheme, offering women free rides in state-run non-luxury buses, will continue. The state government has also cleared Provident Fund dues amounting to Rs 2,000 crore. Patil stressed that even with the increase, Karnataka's bus fares remain more affordable than those in neighboring states.

(With inputs from agencies.)