Bengaluru:  The State Transport Department will once again put forth the proposal to the government to hike bus fares, citing huge losses. The Transport Corporations are preparing to seek Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy’s approval to hike bus fares and a proposal will soon be submitted to the CM, said Transport Minister D.C. Thammanna.

Speaking to presspersons here yesterday, the Minister said the hike was essential as the total loss of the Transport Corporations this financial year alone was Rs. 687 crore. “This time, the extent of hike will be left to the Chief Minister’s discretion,” the Minister said.

The last hike was in 2013 when the diesel price was Rs. 53 per litre, the Minister said. The issue was discussed at the board meeting held on Wednesday and a decision to again submit a proposal has been taken, he said.

On Oct. 12, the Transport Department had issued an order allowing fare hike of 18%, however, the order turned out to be a huge embarrassment for Kumaraswamy as it was issued on the day the State government announced slash in fuel price. The Corporation was then told not to hike fares. “Last time we sought a bus fare hike, the diesel price was Rs. 74 per litre. Although the price has now reduced to Rs. 70 per litre, our losses are increasing. If the fare hike cannot be taken up, we will request the government for additional grants,” the Minister said.

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