TGSRTC launches special festival buses and defends fare increases

The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) is implementing special bus services to accommodate devotees during the Ganesh festival in Hyderabad. From September 14 to 24, special buses will operate from the Jubilee Bus Stand in Secunderabad to the Khairatabad and Balapur Ganesh pandals, running approximately every 40 to 50 minutes.

In response to criticisms regarding fare hikes, TGSRTC officials clarified that they are authorized to charge up to 50% more than regular fares for special festival services. This authority stems from a 2003 government order (GO Ms No. 16), which allows for fare revisions to cover the additional operational, diesel, and maintenance costs associated with special routes, particularly when buses return empty.

The clarification follows allegations from former minister T Harish Rao, who claimed the corporation was increasing fares without notice and burdening passengers. TGSRTC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Y Nagireddy stated that these arrangements are finalized to ensure smooth travel for commuters during the festival period.