CPI(M) Condemns Bus Fare Hike, Demands Rollback
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Shimla, July 28 – The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has strongly condemned the state government’s decision to increase the minimum bus fare from Rs 5 to Rs 12, calling it an undue financial burden on the public. The party has demanded an immediate rollback of the fare hike, warning of a public mobilization and protests if the decision is not reversed.
CPI(M) highlighted that the lack of railway lines in the state makes bus services the primary mode of transportation. The fare increase will disproportionately affect farmers, workers, students, employees, women, and the youth. Additionally, the party criticized the 50% hike in school bus fares and the increase in rates for concessional cards, including yellow, smart, and honor cards.
The party blamed the government’s privatization policies in the transport sector for the losses faced by HRTC, resulting in a decrease in the number of public buses and routes while profitable routes are given to private operators. CPI(M) emphasized that such policies are detrimental to the public and urged the government to strengthen public sector transport services instead.
