ST Bus Fares Likely to Rise Again in Maharashtra; MSRTC Proposes 13.5% Fare Hike

Mumbai | Correspondent

Millions of passengers travelling by Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses may soon have to pay higher fares, as the corporation has proposed a 13.5% increase in ST bus ticket prices. The proposal is expected to be considered at the upcoming Transport Authority meeting, where a final decision is likely to be taken.

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Earlier this year, MSRTC had introduced a 10% seasonal fare hike from April 15 to June 15, which was later extended until July 15. With the extension ending today, the corporation has now submitted a fresh proposal seeking a total fare increase of 13.5%.

In addition to the fare revision, MSRTC has also proposed a significant change in its ticketing system. To reduce disputes between passengers and conductors over loose change, the corporation has recommended that ticket fares be rounded to the nearest multiple of ₹5. Officials believe this move will simplify transactions and improve passenger convenience.

According to MSRTC, the proposed fare hike has become necessary due to a sharp increase in operational expenses. The corporation cited higher employee allowances, rising diesel prices, increased tyre costs, and the growing prices of bus spare parts as the primary reasons behind the proposal.

Despite previous fare revisions, the financial condition of the transport corporation continues to remain under pressure. In May, MSRTC generated ₹1,047.17 crore in transport revenue, while its total expenditure reached ₹1,096.07 crore, resulting in a financial deficit.

Out of the corporation’s 31 divisions, 22 divisions reportedly failed to generate enough revenue to cover their operational costs. It is worth noting that MSRTC had previously implemented a 14.95% fare hike in January 2025.

If the latest proposal receives approval from the Transport Authority, the revised fares are expected to come into effect immediately, increasing travel costs for lakhs of daily commuters across Maharashtra.