Mumbai: School bus transportation charges in Maharashtra will increase by 15 per cent from June 2026 for the 2026-27 academic year, the School Bus Owners Association (Maharashtra) (SBOA-MAH) has announced, citing rising operational costs.
Anil Garg, chairman of SBOA said, "the fee revision has become unavoidable due to a sharp increase in expenses across the sector. Besides higher fuel and diesel prices, operators are facing rising labour costs, increased salaries for drivers and bus attendants, higher vehicle maintenance expenses, escalating prices of spare parts and consumables, insurance premiums, statutory compliance charges, toll fees and permit-related expenses."
SBOA-MAH also pointed to the growing impact of inflation, operational overheads and the financial burden of e-challans and enforcement-related penalties. It noted that rising costs have affected the broader transportation industry, making it increasingly difficult for operators to sustain services while meeting safety and regulatory requirements.
However, the parents have raised concerns over the sudden increase of 15 percent.
"The bus fees range anywhere between 1,500 to 3000 rs or more depending on the distance, if this hike is implemented then the fees will go up by 225rs to 400 rs, which will take a toll on everyone's budget," said Arundhati Chavan, President of Parent-Teachers' Association (PTA) united forum.
"How are we supposed to manage if the school's tuition fees, books and bus all raise prices at the same time. We understand that the inflation is going to affect us but a sudden surge in the prices will be difficult for us to manage. All wings of the education system must co-ordinate and manage the surcharge in a systematic way, so that the parents are not overburdened," said Amit Patil, a parent from Malad.
Moreover, the decision has also received flak from the parents association as they were not consulted. "The bus owners are required to consult with the parents, teachers and schools before taking such a decision, they have not informed us. There will be an agitation against this," added Chavan.
Similarly, schools also raised questions about the hike. "We were not aware of the hike. The schools have not yet opened, and the families are still coming back from the vacation. The parents will raise the issue once the school re-opens," said Dr. Shunila Joy, Principal of Universal School in Tardeo.
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