CPM condemns state govt for hiking bus fare

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has condemned the Congress-led state government for its decision to hike the minimum bus fare from Rs 5 to Rs 10 and has demanded the state government to immediately roll back the decision. Terming the decision as anti-people, CPM has warned to hold statewide protests against the government if it fails to roll back the decision.

In a statement issued by CPM leader Sanjay Chauhan, he stated that public bus transport remains the only mode of commuting and travelling for most people in the state, as state lacks railway connectivity and other transport infrastructure. He said this hike would severely impact farmers, labourers, students, employees, women and the youth — many of whom rely on daily bus travel for livelihood, education and essential work. “For those traveling short distances, including daily wage earners, schoolchildren and working women, the fare has effectively doubled,” said Chauhan.

“The government has justified the hike in bus fare citing financial losses faced by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and the ongoing economic crisis. However, the real reason lies in the neoliberal policies implemented by successive governments, which have pushed the transport sector toward privatization. The number of buses and routes operated by the HRTC has been steadily declining, while permits for profitable routes are being handed over to private operators.

“At present, the HRTC operates around 3,150 buses across 2,573 routes, whereas private operators have taken over nearly 8,300 buses and dominate the majority of routes. Profitable routes are being intentionally being given to private players, due to which the HRTC is suffering losses,” he said.

CPM warned that the steep hike in fares will also worsen urban traffic conditions, especially in cities like Shimla that is already grappling with congestion. “With higher bus fares, many may opt for private vehicles, further escalating traffic and pollution levels in the city,” he said.

Chauhan said that privatisation of transport has not yielded positive results globally, prompting many countries to reverse course and bring transportation services back into the public domain. “In fact, some global cities are now offering free public transport,” he added.

Himachal Tribune