Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Wednesday defended the state’s decision to raise bus fares, linking the move to soaring diesel and petrol costs and the financial strain on state‑run transport corporations.
Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh announced that the four government‑run operators will see fare increases of roughly 23 per cent for KSRTC and 33–35 per cent for BMTC in Bengaluru. The revised rates take effect at midnight on Wednesday, translating into an extra Rs 2 to Rs 3 per ticket at most stages.
Addressing reporters, Shivakumar said the corporations were unable to purchase diesel ten days earlier because they lacked cash. He added that the government had injected funds free of cost to keep services running, and that opposition protests were merely a reaction to the inevitable adjustment.
Turning the critique toward the BJP, the chief minister urged party leaders to approach Prime Minister Narendra Modi and demand a reduction in fuel prices. “If the centre lowers diesel and petrol rates, we will immediately cut bus fares,” he asserted, emphasizing that the state’s priority is the financial viability of its transport network.
Shivakumar also responded to backlash over the recent hike in Nandini milk prices. He explained that the Karnataka Cabinet approved an Rs 8 per litre increase, with Rs 7 earmarked for farmers and Rs 1 for the Karnataka Milk Federation, effective from 1 November. Subsequent adjustments raised curd by Rs 14 per litre and certain special milks by up to Rs 12, variations he attributed to differences in fat content and product categories.
By highlighting the lack of opposition commentary on rising costs of iron, cement, medicines and gas, Shivakumar framed the fare and milk price changes as necessary steps to protect both commuters and dairy producers during a period of drought and inflation.
Image: sahilonline.org
📰 Source: Sahil Online