Explained: How TSRTC bus fare hike could wean away dedicated commuters

TSRTC has been levying a cess on passenger fares from April 9. This effectively increases the bus fares by Rs 5 for each trip. After the rise, the TSRTC bus fares are more expensive than Bangalore buses. While the diesel cess is only Rs 2 in Pallevalegu, due to TSRTC's existing policy of rounding fares to the nearest multiple of Rs 5 has further increased the charges. Prashanth Bachu, an Urban Transport Specialist who works as an advisor to transit agencies and governments across the country said the TSRTC's decision to increase prices will adversely affect them in the longer run. People who shifted out of the bus will now travel by private vehicles thus increasing congestion on the roads. This leads to buses not being able to complete their trips on time and deteriorating the quality of service.