MSRTC Bus Fares To Rise By 13.56 Percent Across Maharashtra From Midnight

The State Transport Authority (STA) has approved a 13.56 percent fare hike for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses in Mumbai and across Maharashtra. The fare revision, which is scheduled to take effect from the midnight between July 17 and July 18, was prompted by rising operational costs. The decision is set to directly impact more than 55 lakh passengers who rely on the state-run bus service every day.

In tandem with the new fare increase, the corporation announced that the existing 10 percent seasonal fare hike for ordinary buses will be withdrawn. This seasonal hike had only recently been extended until the end of the month on July 15, but that decision has now been superseded by the newly approved fare structure.

According to an official release from the corporation, the fare revision became necessary due to multiple financial challenges. The primary driver behind the hike is the rising cost of diesel, which has been influenced by the ongoing geopolitical situation in the Gulf region.

Additionally, the MSRTC has faced higher expenditures on employee allowances. The corporation has also reported increased costs for essential materials and upkeep, including spare parts, tyres, and general vehicle maintenance. Officials stated that implementing the fare hike was a vital step to ensure the financial sustainability of the transport corporation.

MSRTC is currently one of the largest public bus service providers in the country. The corporation operates a massive fleet of more than 14,000 buses, connecting various cities, towns, and rural areas. The daily ridership of over 55 lakh commuters makes it a crucial part of the state's public transport infrastructure.

The fare adjustment was officially confirmed by a senior transport official following the approval from the State Transport Authority.