Greenpeace India has appealed to the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to withdraw the proposed fare hike for Namma Metro and the recent 15% fare increase for public buses.
The organisation expressed concern that rising travel costs will discourage the city’s residents from using public transport, exacerbating Bengaluru’s worsening traffic congestion and environmental challenges.
In a statement, Greenpeace India said the proposed 40-45% hike in metro fares would raise the base fare to ₹15 and the maximum fare to ₹85, while public bus fares increased from January 5. Greenpeace India argues that these hikes come at a time when the city requires a robust and affordable transport system to combat rising air pollution, traffic chaos, and climate change impacts.
Greenpeace India stated that a similar fare increase in Delhi reportedly led to a sharp decline in metro ridership, and there are fears that Bengaluru could face the same issue if immediate corrective measures are not taken.
Aakiz Farooq, Campaigner at Greenpeace India, stressed the adverse effects on lower-income groups who depend heavily on public transport. “Rising fares will significantly impact affordability and place a financial burden on those already struggling with the high cost of living. Public transport should remain economically accessible rather than become a luxury,” he said.
Greenpeace India highlighted the importance of efficient public transport in reducing private vehicle dependency and addressing environmental degradation. The organisation also underscored the need for greater financial support from the Karnataka state and central governments to cover operational and maintenance costs. To ensure sustained financial support for operational and maintenance needs, Greenpeace India demanded the creation of a dedicated public transport fund.
Published – January 15, 2025 10:51 pm IST