Bengaluru, 25 March

As the festive season of Ugadi and Eid-ul-Fitr approaches, private bus operators in Bengaluru have hiked ticket prices significantly. With a three-day holiday beginning on Friday night, many people who have planned to head home for the celebrations are now fuming.

People booking their tickets to destinations, including Hubballi, Dharwad, Belagavi and Mangaluru, have reported price surges, with some service providers doubling or even tripling the charges.

For instance, the fare for a Bengaluru–Dharwad journey, which typically costs between Rs 600 and Rs 1,100, has now surged to as high as Rs 5,500.

Passengers have expressed outrage over the sharp fare hikes, accusing private operators of exploiting the festive rush.

Neeraj K, who hails from Shivamogga district, said, "Usually tickets cost Rs.500–600. But the prices have now more than doubled to 1,300." He said his trip on Saturday will cost him Rs 1,260 after bargaining with an agent at the Majestic Bus Stand.

Nataraj Sharma, president of the Private Bus Owners' Association, defended the fare hikes. "We have only increased fares by 50 to 60 per cent, not double. The state budget this year has made no provisions for private bus operators. Road taxes, insurance and prices of new buses and spare parts have increased. Even we need to make a living during festivals," he argued.

Meanwhile, the transport department has warned private bus operators and online ticketing platforms against overcharging. A control room has been set up for passengers to report exploitation, with helpline number 9449863459.

Additional Commissioner (Enforcement) C Mallikarjuna said, "Strict action will be taken against operators who do not comply with the warnings, including suspension of permits or cancellation of registrations."

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