The All Odisha Bus Owners' Association on Saturday issued a 10-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding an immediate revision of passenger bus fares. The association cited a steep increase in operational costs over the past six years, warning that private bus operators across the state may suspend services if their demand is not met within the stipulated period.
Memorandum Submitted to Chief Minister
In a memorandum submitted to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the association highlighted that bus fares were last revised in 2021. Despite substantial increases in diesel prices, staff wages, insurance premiums, tyre costs, maintenance expenses, and other operational parameters, no revision has taken place since then.
Thirteen Parameters Witnessing Escalation
The association pointed out 13 parameters that have seen significant escalation since 2020. These include:
- Diesel prices rising from Rs 78.17 per litre to Rs 100.91 per litre
- Staff wages increasing from Rs 39,000 to Rs 75,000 per month
- Supervision expenses climbing from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per month
Debendra Kumar Sahoo, president of the All Odisha Bus Owners' Association, stated, “We have requested the government to revise bus fares by considering all 13 parameters that directly impact the operation of passenger buses. For the last six years, operators have been bearing the burden of rising costs, making it increasingly difficult to sustain services.”
Government Notification Not Followed
As per a government notification in 2017, the government must review the 13 parameters every year in April and revise the base fare accordingly. However, this has not been done for the last six years. Sahoo added, “If the government does not take a positive decision within 10 days, we will be compelled to stop bus operations across Odisha.”
The association also noted that although provisions exist for fare revision based on fuel prices and other operational costs, the mechanism has not been implemented regularly, pushing the passenger transport sector into a financial crisis.
Government Response
Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena said, “We had a discussion with the bus owners’ association. Their concerns regarding fare revision and operational costs will be examined. The state government will take an appropriate decision after reviewing all relevant aspects and consulting the concerned authorities.”
The development comes amid growing concerns among private bus operators over the viability of running services under rising input costs.
