Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Oct 13: Udupi City Bus Owners Association said that it has been decided to hike city bus fares by one rupee across the board for all tickets. The hike will come into effect from October 15. The decision has been taken in view of steep increase in coast of operations because of frequent hike in diesel prices, it said.

The association stated that as per the circular issued by the state government on bus fares, there is a provision to levy surcharge whenever there is increase in cost of diesel, oil, vehicle tax, insurance, spare parts etc.

"The city buses in Mangaluru have already implemented new rates. In order to meet the loss arising out of increased diesel cost, minimum city bus fare for the first two km will go up to eight rupees from the previous seven. In all future stages, the increase will be flat one rupee. Students will get 50 percent concession in the new fare, and daily commuters will get 30 percent concession as before," the association mentioned.

General secretary of the association, Sandeep, has asked those desirous of availing concessions to collect coupons.