Private bus operators have hiked fares by 25% to 30% on various routes during the summer vacation period. This surge comes amid increased passenger traffic and challenges in securing train reservations or affording airfares. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:
Reasons for Fare Hike
- Increased passenger traffic during the vacation season.
- Fewer MSRTC buses plying from Pune, leading to higher demand for private buses.
- Transporters need to cover taxes, salaries, and operational costs.
Passenger Experiences
- Shankar Jamle paid Rs 1,800 for a seat to Hyderabad, up from Rs 1,200 previously.
- Sarath Patel had to pay Rs 4,000 for two AC sleeper tickets to Ahmedabad, a 60% increase.
Official Statements:
- Maharashtra Rajya Malak and Pravasi Vahtuk Sanghatna advise transporters to avoid unreasonable fares.
- Pune District Bus and Car Owners’ Association ensures fares are not excessively high.
Regulatory Measures
- Pune RTO officials monitoring fare hikes and accepting complaints from passengers via WhatsApp and email.
Despite the fare hikes, operators aim to balance profitability with passenger convenience, especially during peak travel seasons.
Source : timesofindia
