Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar : The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has dropped its proposal for a flat 15% fare hike during the Diwali rush period in view of the prevailing drought conditions.
Seasonal fare hikes are implemented every year during the festive season to boost the revenue of the state transport undertaking. However, state transport minister and ex-officio MSRTC chairperson Pratap Sarnaik has rejected the proposal for a seasonal fare revision, saying an increase would add to the difficulties of people already reeling under drought and inflation.
“The MSRTC fares have already become higher due to the hikes in the past.
Standing behind people in times of crisis is the duty of the government,” he said. In his statement, Sarnaik said farmers are scorched by drought, common citizens are battling inflation, and families are struggling to make ends meet. A fare hike would have directly hit their daily budget, especially for families already distressed by drought,” he said. It is good that the seasonal fare hike is rejected citing drought conditions,” private professional Amit Dharashivkar said.
“Increasing fares is not acceptable as it would be rubbing salt on the wounds of the drought-hit population. The MSRTC may be facing losses, but I will not put that burden on the common man’s pocket. Passengers welcomed the decision to reject a seasonal fare hike.