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NWKRTC hikes non-stop bus fares by 18-35%, sparking backlash. Passengers demand clarity as rural travellers face burdens, while officials promise a review.
The fare for the Hubballi-Gadag route has gone up by Re 1, with non-stop buses now costing Rs 90, compared to Rs 77 before. (Photo: Oneindia)
The North-Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has raised fares for its non-stop bus services by 18 to 35 percent, following the government’s decision to increase bus fares.
Previously, express and non-stop buses on routes like Hubballi-Belagavi, Hubballi-Gadag, and Hubballi-Kalghatgi had the same fare, but now passengers must pay more for non-stop services.
According to TOI, the fare for the Hubballi-Gadag route has gone up by Re 1, with non-stop buses now costing Rs 90, compared to Rs 77 before. Male passengers are particularly upset, as women continue to pay lower fares. Dilip Patil, a medical representative, expressed frustration to the TOI, saying, “There’s no clear reason for this unfair increase.”
Amarappa Olekar, a regular traveller on the Hubballi-Kalghatgi route, also criticised the hike, especially since the fare for a short 30-km journey has now risen to Rs 50. “This is a heavy burden for the rural population in Kalghatgi,” he said as quoted by TOI.
Dharwad district minister Santosh Lad, representing Kalghatgi, claimed he was unaware of the steep hike and promised to investigate the matter, adding that if it’s true, NWKRTC will be asked to lower the fares.
Consumer rights activist Lingaraj Dharwad suggested that NWKRTC should reward passengers on non-stop buses. “If fares are too high, passengers might switch to express buses, making them overcrowded and uncomfortable for others,” he warned.
