To make up for the losses it faces every festive season due to low fares as against that of private bus operators, the state transport department, probably for the first time ever, has effected a temporary hike in charges of MSRTC buses for Diwali.
The temporary hike for AC MSRTC buses, Shivneri, will be up to 20%, for the semi-luxury ones, Hirkani, the hike is 15%, and up to 10% for the normal and overnight services. These hikes will be applicable on buses running between November 4 and 6, and November 10 and 11.
Transport minister Diwakar Raote on Wednesday said the MSRTC had been accorded powers to effect up to 30% temporary hike in fares, especially during festive seasons.
“Every festive season, private transporters hike their fares. However, the state transport buses continue to charge low fares. Considering the recent drought-related and other concessions given to students, the hike has been effected to make up for the losses,” said Raote. The additional services during the recent Kumbh Mela and Ganeshotsav led to loss of Rs 10 crore, besides another Rs 9 crore loss due to the free travel allowed for students in Marathwada.
Opposition leader Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and NCP leader Nawab Malik said the state was forcing a cut on people’s wallets at a time when they should be accorded additional bonuses and perks. Interestingly, the transport department has decided to press into service additional vehicles.
Also, those ferrying people illegally in their cars will have to pay Rs 50 a day for parking the seized vehicles, over and above the fine, once they are caught. tnn