Karnataka Private Bus Fares To Increase By 15% In Wake Of Diesel, Toll Price Hike: Report

Bengaluru: Private bus operators in Karnataka are planning to increase fares by 15 per cent after a hike in diesel and toll prices. The Private Bus Owners Association announced its decision to increase ticket prices by Rs 2 per stage, reported India Today.

The increase in prices will reportedly come into effect from May this year. The development came in the wake of the recent increase in fuel and toll prices for private bus operators. As per the association, the decision will reduce the financial crisis caused by the increasing tool and fuel prices by the Siddaramaiah government in the state.

In recent times, Karnataka witnessed large-scale protests against the increasing prices. These protests are led by various transport and trade groups. The increase in the private bus fares is likely to add to the public anger.

The Private Bus Owners Association also announced support for the shutdown call of the Lorry Owners Association. "We support the bandh called by the Lorry Owners Association. A separate decision will be taken on whether to stop private bus services,” the association said in a statement as quoted by India Today.

On April 1, the Karnataka government increased the sales tax on diesel. It resulted in te increase of diesel prices by Rs 2 per litre.