The Odisha Private Bus Owners’ Association has once again demanded an increase in bus fares in Odisha, citing the continuous rise in fuel prices and operational expenses. The association has taken a strong stand on the issue and warned that buses may stop operating if the government fails to revise fares soon.

According to the association, the sharp increase in diesel prices has made it difficult for private bus operators to sustain daily services. Bus owners claim that while fuel and maintenance costs are rising steadily, bus fares have remained unchanged, putting heavy financial pressure on operators across the state.

Association Warns Of Possible Bus Service Disruption

Association secretary Devendra Sahu stated that private bus operators are struggling to manage expenses under the current fare structure. He warned that if the government does not take an immediate decision regarding fare revision, bus services may be affected in the coming days.

He further informed that a crucial meeting of the Bus Owners’ Association will be held next Saturday, after which a final decision regarding future action will be announced.

“The notification clearly states that every year in April, fare revisions should be carried out by considering 13 factors, including bus body costs, chassis prices, lubricants, tyres, bank interest and other operational expenses. If costs decrease, fares should also be reduced, and if costs rise, fares should be increased accordingly. However, for the last 10 years, no proper assessment has been conducted. We have repeatedly submitted memorandums to the government seeking a solution, but the Odisha government has not taken any concrete decision so far,” said Devendra Sahu, Secretary of the Private Bus Owners’ Association.

“We urge the Transport Minister that while strict checking and enforcement are being carried out, equal attention should also be given to this issue. If diesel prices come down and fares remain unchanged, we are ready to continue operating at the existing fare structure without burdening passengers. But if the Odisha government fails to find a solution, we will be forced to stop operating our buses,” he added. 

“We are actively working on the issue and reviewing the matter. During this difficult period, transport operators should not increase fares beyond the approved rates. They should cooperate with the government and follow the prescribed rules and regulations, including the existing 2 percent fare hike policy,” said Odisha Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena.

Demand For Clear Government Policy

The association has urged the Odisha government to introduce a transparent and clear policy for periodic bus fare revisions linked to fuel price fluctuations.

Bus owners argue that whenever fuel prices rise, transport operators are forced to bear the burden without adequate support. The association believes a proper fare adjustment mechanism is necessary to ensure smooth public transport services and protect operators from mounting losses.