Bengaluru: Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has ruled out any immediate increase in bus ticket fares despite a recent surge in commercial diesel prices, offering relief to commuters across the state.
Speaking to the media, the minister made it clear that the state government will not take any decision to hike fares at this stage, even as fuel prices have risen in the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
“Diesel prices have increased, but we will not raise bus ticket fares now. We also do not have the authority to arbitrarily increase fares immediately,” he said.
Reddy further indicated that the current price rise is linked to temporary global factors, including conflict-related disruptions. He expressed hope that fuel prices would stabilise once the situation improves.
“This increase is due to the war situation. Once the conflict subsides, prices will automatically come down,” he added.
On being asked about forming a committee to review fare revision, the minister dismissed the idea for now, stating that there is no immediate plan to initiate such a process.
He also criticised the Union Government over its fuel pricing policy, pointing out that even when crude oil prices had dropped significantly in the past, the benefits were not fully passed on to the public.
“Earlier, when crude oil prices fell, the Central Government did not reduce prices proportionately for consumers. Taxes continued, and the benefit did not reach the people,” he said.
Reiterating the state’s stand, Reddy assured that Karnataka will not burden citizens with a fare hike at present.
“Whatever the situation may be, we are not increasing fares now,” he said, while adding that the Centre may take its own decisions regarding fuel pricing.
The statement comes as a reassurance to daily commuters who depend heavily on public transport, especially amid rising cost pressures linked to fuel prices.
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