Karnataka Government Increases Bus Fares by 15%, Draws Opposition Criticism
The fare hike, effective January 5, is aimed at offsetting rising operational costs, while free travel for women under the 'Shakti' scheme remains unaffected.
- The Karnataka cabinet approved a 15% fare increase for state-run bus services, effective January 5, citing rising fuel and staff costs.
- The hike applies to four transport corporations: KSRTC, NWKRTC, KKRTC, and BMTC, and is expected to generate ₹784 crore annually.
- The decision comes as operational costs have significantly risen, with daily diesel and staff expenditures increasing by over ₹4 crore each in the past decade.
- The Congress-led government emphasized that the 'Shakti' scheme, which provides free bus travel for women, will continue without financial strain on the state budget.
- Opposition BJP leaders criticized the move as anti-people and plan statewide protests, arguing it unfairly burdens male commuters and reflects poor financial management.
Hindustan Times 
