Karnataka to increase government bus fares from November 5

Karnataka Transport Minister Byrati Suresh has announced that fares for state-owned transport buses will increase starting November 5. The decision follows rising operational costs, with the minister noting that diesel price hikes by the central government have resulted in an annual loss of 2,000 crore rupees for the state's four transport corporations. Currently, these corporations face total losses amounting to 9,000 crore rupees.

A final decision regarding the specific extent of the fare hike will be reached on November 4 following a meeting between the transport department and corporation officials.

In related transport developments, the minister noted that the government is working to strengthen the public transport system by introducing 6,500 new buses through the PM e-Drive scheme and World Bank assistance. Additionally, the minister highlighted the impact of the Shakti scheme, stating that over 845 crore female passengers have traveled for free, costing the government approximately 22,281 crore rupees.