KSRTC hikes fares; private vehicles watch.

KSRTC hikes fares; private vehicles watch.

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru :  The KSRTC -  Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation  has immediately increased fares on buses plying through NITK, Surathkal, toll plaza, private operators have decided not to seek fare hike for the present. NHAI had commenced collection of toll. Exorbitant toll fee at NITK, Surathkal toll plaza severely affects fleet operators.

KSRTC had increased fares on its Mangaluru-Manipal Volvo service by Rs. 6 taking the total fare to Rs. 101. However, the fare was kept at Rs. 100, rounded, KSRTC Divisional Controller Vivekanand Hegde told media. Since buses belonging to other two Corporations—NWKRTC and NEKRTC—too ply via the toll plaza, the Central Office takes the decision about the hike in fares.

Nevertheless, he would be negotiating with NHAI and the toll collection company for availing monthly passes on concessions.

On the other hand, private operators under Canara Bus Operators’ Association have negotiated to pay Rs. 5,100 per month, irrespective of number of trips a bus makes via the toll plaza. There are buses which make up to eight entries through the plaza, said Association President K. Rajavarma Ballal. In such a situation, the original monthly pass, offering 50 entries at Rs. 5,105 was not useful.  Ballal said the Association held negotiations with the NHAI and the toll company and arrived at the monthly pass. However, this concession is available only to those operators who come through the Association and not individually. Several private express and shuttle buses ply via the toll plaza every day.