Karnataka Increases State Bus Fares Amid Financial Losses
The Karnataka government raised bus fares across four state-run corporations to offset rising diesel costs and mounting operational liabilities.
The Government of Karnataka increased bus fares across its four state-run transport corporations effective November 5, 2026. The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) saw the steepest increases, with fares rising between 32% and 35%, while the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) implemented average hikes of 23%.
In Bengaluru, BMTC minimum fares rose from ₹6 to ₹10, and maximum fares increased from ₹35 to ₹45. Vayu Vajra airport services increased to ₹425. Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh attributed the move to a ₹10.47 per litre surge in diesel prices this year and total liabilities ranging from ₹7,719 crore to ₹9,912 crore. He noted that while the Shakti scheme continues to provide free travel for women, the state faces significant outstanding reimbursements.
Chief Minister D K Shivakumar defended the decision, stating that the transport corporations are running at a loss. He challenged the opposition to urge the central government to reduce cesses on petrol and diesel, promising that the state would reduce fares if fuel prices dropped.
Opposition leader R Ashok condemned the hikes as illegal, alleging the government owes the Transport Department over ₹5,800 crore due to the free bus service scheme. The All India United Trade Union Centre (AIUTUC) also demanded a rollback, characterizing the increase as an anti-people burden caused by government corruption and policy failures.
