Major BMTC and KSRTC Bus Fare Hike Likely as Transport Corporations Seek Government Approval

Bengaluru: Commuters across Karnataka could soon face another increase in bus travel costs as the state’s four transport corporations have formally sought government approval to revise passenger fares. The proposal, submitted to the Chief Minister, is being examined after officials were asked to submit a detailed report, raising the possibility of a fare revision in the near future.

The transport corporations have attributed the proposed hike to worsening financial conditions. According to the proposal, BMTC has sought permission to increase ticket prices by 44 percent, while KSRTC has requested a 33 percent fare revision. Similar measures have also been proposed by NWKRTC and KKRTC.

One of the primary reasons cited is the sharp rise in diesel prices. Transport officials said higher fuel costs have significantly increased operating expenses, resulting in an estimated monthly financial burden of nearly Rs 40 crore. If the situation continues, the annual losses could climb to around Rs 480 crore.

Apart from fuel expenses, the corporations are also preparing to implement a 12.5 percent salary revision for employees from July. They are additionally required to clear pending salary arrears, with more than Rs 821 crore yet to be released after a partial payment was made earlier.

Officials have also pointed to pending reimbursements under the state’s Shakti Scheme, with nearly Rs 5000 crore still awaiting release. They argue that the combined impact of these financial obligations has made a fare revision necessary to maintain transport services.

The proposal has, however, sparked concern among regular commuters. Since bus fares were revised only last year, many passengers have expressed disappointment over the likelihood of another increase within a short period, especially at a time when household expenses continue to rise.