ST Fare Hike Kicks In April 15, Rural Travel Costs Soar Nagpur: In a move set to impact thousands of commuters, especially from rural and small-town areas, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced a temporary 10% fare hike for its ordinary bus services during the peak summer season. The revised fares will take effect from April 15 and remain in force until June 15. The decision follows a surge in passenger traffic during the summer months and the ongoing wedding season, when demand for public transport rises significantly. However, the burden of this fare hike is expected to fall heavily on villagers and small-town travelers, who primarily rely on ordinary and semi-luxury (midi) buses for their daily or long-distance travel. According to officials, the fare increase will apply only to ordinary, midi, and night service buses. Premium services such as Shivneri, Shivshahi, e-buses (e-Shivai), Asiad, and sleeper coaches have been exempted from the hike. The fare revision is temporary, and officials have clarified that ticket rates will revert to their existing tariffs from June 16 onwards. This adjustment aims to address the increased operational costs and higher passenger volume during the summer season. The MSRTC’s decision has sparked discussions among commuters and transport operators. While the fare hike is intended to manage financial pressures, it has raised concerns about the affordability of public transport for rural and semi-urban populations. Many villagers and small-town residents depend on these buses for essential travel, including access to healthcare, education, and employment. The temporary nature of the increase provides some relief, as the higher fares will be reversed once the peak season ends.#nagpur #summer_season #msrtc #maharashtra_state_road_transport_corporation #wedding_season
