Karnataka govt. willing to reduce fares if Centre cuts diesel price: Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of Karnataka defended the recent bus fare increase, attributing it to the rise in diesel prices imposed by the Union government. He asserted that the state government was prepared to correspondingly reduce fares if the central authorities lowered diesel prices. The Karnataka government has been providing financial assistance to state-owned road transport corporations (RTC) that were struggling to afford diesel purchases.

Shivakumar acknowledged the financial strain on RTCs due to the "Shakti" guarantee, which offers free travel for women across the state, leading to a rise in fare costs. He questioned the opposition parties for their silence on the increased costs of various essential items, such as diesel, petrol, LPG, fertilizers, and agricultural implements.

Shivakumar emphasized the importance of RTCs' survival, stating that they must be allowed to recover financially.