Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod (SP)

Kasargod, Mar 31: The government has decided to increase the minimum bus fare as well as auto and taxi hire charges.

The minimum bus fare has been increased to ten rupees from the earlier eight. The bus owners had sought to increase the minimum fare to Rs 12. By paying this minimum fare, passengers can travel for 2.5 km. For every additional km, the fare hike will be one rupee. The existing fare per additional km was 90 paise. Bus fare hike is also applicable for government buses.

The fare hike in respect of students will be considered separately and a committee will be formed for the purpose. The minimum fare for autos has been hiked to Rs 30 from Rs 25. At this minimum fare, passengers of autos can travel for 1.5 km. For every additional kilometre, a fare hike of Rs 15 as against the current 12 has been permitted. For taxis less than 1,500cc, minimum fare for a distance of five km is Rs 200. Earlier it was Rs 175. For every additional kilometre, Rs 20 as against the current Rs 15 becomes payable. For taxis that are more than 1,500cc, a minimum fare for five km is Rs 225.