Private bus fare hike opposed at RTA meeting

Mangalore, Oct 20, 2012: The proposal to hike private bus fare was opposed at an RTA meeting held in the office of the deputy commissioner on Oct 19, Saturday. The meeting was chaired by DC Dr. N. S. Channappa Gowda.

Sarvajanika Hitharakshana Vedike President Hanumanth Kamath said that private bus owners do not take into consideration the number of times a commuter’s salary is hiked while they find excuses to raise bus fares. Stating that a number of people are in favor of KSRTC bus services in the city, Mr. Kamath said that private bus operators are trying to maintain monopoly while they demand fare hike on one hand and oppose the introduction of KSRTC buses on the other.

Sadananda, a civil society representative, complained that people are treated like animals in private buses, adding that sometimes 200 – 300 people are made to travel in one bus. Since the people of Mangalore have the right to journey comfortably, he demanded the introduction of KSRTC buses in the city. He said that there is no need to raise bus fares as private bus operators are already making profits.

Dinesh of the Association of Physically Challenged said that seats reserved for the physically challenged are used by others, adding that they are not even being given concessions. He also suggested that endosulphan victims should not be charged.  

Another civil society representative complained that thefts in buses are on the rise because of overcrowding. Although mobile phones, chains, and purses are continuously being stolen in buses, the bus staff takes no responsibility for it.

The issue of permitting buses, which are now allowed only up to Kankanady and Mallikatta, to travel up to State Bank was also discussed.

Speaking on behalf of private bus operators, their legal representatives said that bus owners have the right to increase the minimum bus fare to Rs. 6 according to existing notification and must be permitted to do so.

The DC assured all concerned that he will examine all the suggestions and come to a decision soon.