Daijiworld Media Network – Bangalore (SP)

Bangalore, Apr 22: The state government, which was eagerly awaiting the conclusion of elections for affecting hike in electricity tariff and bus fares, is all set to implement these hikes within a few days from now. In all likelihood, power tariff will go up with effect from first week of May this year, and the hike may be in the order or 30 to 40 paise per unit.

All the electricity distribution companies in the state had approached Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission to permit revision of power tariff by 66 paise per unit, and the commission had invited objections from the public. During the period of one month prescribed for filing of objections, 2722 objections, most of them relating to Mescom, were received by the commission.

KERC has set dates for holding public adalats relating to the revision of tariff for Mysore (April 22), Mangalore (April 23), Hubli (April 29), and Gulbarga (30) electric supply companies. After the conclusion of these adalats, it will come out with its order. Public hearing on objections was held relating to Bescom on Monday April 21.

Citing several hikes in diesel prices, Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation, had sought permission from the government to increase bus fares by an average of ten to twelve percent. In view of the Lok Sabha election, the government had deferred its decision. Out of the four arms of the corporation, Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation, North Western Karntaka Road Transport Corporation, and North East Road Transport Corporation are facing losses, while Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation continues to be in the green.