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Private Bus Fare Revision Inevitable Due to Rising Costs, Decision Deferred by a Month: DK Bus Owners’ Association

By Editor

Posted on May 24, 2026

Private Bus Fare Revision Inevitable Due to Rising Costs, Decision Deferred by a Month: DK Bus Owners' Association

Mangaluru : The Dakshina Kannada Private Bus Owners’ Association has stated that a revision of private bus fares has become unavoidable due to the surging prices of diesel, increased costs of spare parts, higher taxes, and rising insurance premiums. However, instead of implementing an immediate hike, the association has decided to closely monitor the fluctuation of these expenses over the next month before making a final call.

Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, the association’s president, Aziz Parthipady, highlighted that bus fares have remained unchanged for the past five years. He emphasized that the current financial strain on operators has left them with no choice but to consider a fare restructuring. Over the coming month, a scientific evaluation concerning diesel prices and overall operational costs will be conducted to finalize the upcoming tariff adjustments.

The association also addressed staff conduct, noting that drivers and conductors will be strictly instructed to behave courteously with passengers, especially students, ensuring the public faces no inconvenience. Furthermore, given the heavy monsoon season, staff will be directed to drive cautiously and prioritize the safety of commuters.

Highlighting infrastructure grievances, the association urged the government to take immediate action regarding the severe waterlogging at the Bejai KSRTC Junction during the rainy season, which causes immense hardship to commuters. Additionally, persistent traffic congestion at the KPT-Nanthoor Junction has made it incredibly difficult for buses to maintain their schedules. Similar traffic bottlenecks at Kuntikana, Lalbagh, PVS, and Bunts Hostel junctions are causing significant delays to public transport services.

Expressing concern over safety, the association alleged a rise in anti-social activities around the State Bank bus stand, particularly during evening hours. Finding the dimly lit crowded terminal unsafe for women waiting for buses late in the day, the association has strongly demanded the setting up of a dedicated police outpost at the location. Association vice-president K. Ramachandra Nayak, general secretary Ramachandra Pillar, and treasurer Joel Dilraj Fernandes were also present at the press meet.