Private bus fares rise in Bengaluru following KSRTC hike
Commuters face higher travel costs on popular routes during the festive season as private operators adjust ticket prices.
Private bus fares for routes from Bengaluru to various destinations across Karnataka and neighbouring states have increased, according to The Hindu. Commuters reported steep rises in ticket prices, particularly on routes connecting Bengaluru with Mangaluru, Hubballi and Belagavi.
The fare increases come following a recent hike in fares by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Commuters alleged that operators are taking advantage of the KSRTC revision and high festive season demand to charge exorbitant prices.
One private bus operator, who requested anonymity, said that rising operating costs compelled the fare revision. He noted that the State government cited a diesel price increase of more than ₹10 per litre as a reason for the KSRTC hike, and private operators face the same fuel price burden.
Another private bus operator stated that a 5 per cent increase in national highway toll charges and high annual road taxes have further increased operating expenses. Sangeetha M., a commuter from R.T. Nagar, Bengaluru, said she found fares for Mangaluru had increased by between ₹2,500 and ₹3,000.
A Transport Department official said private operators with All India Tourist Permits (AITP) have the autonomy to revise fares dynamically based on market demand. However, the official said that harassing commuters with excessively high fares or misleading passengers through inflated prices will not be tolerated and that checks will be conducted.