Private bus operators in Haryana have urged the state government to increase bus fares in the wake of a recent surge in fuel prices. The operators claim that the rising cost of diesel has severely impacted their profitability and that without a fare revision, they will be forced to reduce services or shut down operations.
Operators Cite Rising Costs
The Haryana Roadways Bus Operators Association has submitted a memorandum to the state transport department, seeking an immediate fare hike. According to the association, the price of diesel has increased by over 15% in the past few months, while bus fares have remained unchanged for over two years. This has led to a significant increase in operational costs, including maintenance, tyres, and spare parts.
Impact on Services
The association warned that if the fare hike is not granted, many operators may be compelled to cut down on routes or reduce the frequency of buses. This could lead to inconvenience for passengers, especially in rural areas where private buses are the primary mode of transport. The operators also highlighted that the fare hike is essential to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, as they need to invest in vehicle maintenance and upgrades.
Government Response
Transport department officials have acknowledged the demand and stated that they are reviewing the proposal. A decision is expected soon, taking into account the interests of both operators and passengers. However, no timeline has been provided for the fare revision.
In the meantime, passengers are likely to face the brunt of the rising fuel prices, as private bus operators may continue to press for higher fares. The association has also urged the government to consider a dynamic fare adjustment mechanism linked to fuel prices, similar to the system used for auto-rickshaws and taxis in some cities.
