Harish Rao flays Govt. for collecting double fare in RTC buses

In a heated statement to the press, K. Harish Rao, the senior minister for transport in Telangana, condemned the recent decision by the state transport corporation to double ticket prices on its bus fleet during the festive season. The move, justified by officials as a response to higher demand, has been described by Rao as an unfair burden on commuters who rely on public transport for daily travel and for reaching family gatherings. He pointed out that many low‑income workers depend on these services and that the price hike could limit their ability to participate in cultural celebrations.

Rao demanded an immediate rollback of the increased fares, calling for the implementation of regular schedules that do not exploit festival traffic. He also suggested that the government should explore alternative measures, such as adding extra buses or offering limited‑time discounts, to manage the surge in passengers without raising costs. The minister’s remarks were echoed by several opposition leaders and consumer rights groups, who organized a small protest outside the RTC headquarters. They argued that the transport department should prioritize accessibility over short‑term revenue gains.

The controversy arrives at a time when the state is preparing for a series of major festivals that attract large crowds across urban and rural areas. For readers in India, the dispute highlights the ongoing tension between public service affordability and fiscal pressures on government agencies. It also raises questions about how transport policies are shaped during peak periods and the role of political oversight in protecting commuter interests. The outcome of Rao’s demand could set a precedent for fare regulation in other Indian states during high‑traffic events.