Hyderabad: The Dasara travel rush intensified across Hyderabad as people left for their hometowns after schools began their holidays. Major bus terminals, including MGBS and JBS, drew large crowds. Secunderabad, Kacheguda and Nampally railway stations also saw heavy passenger traffic.
Vehicle movement increased on routes connecting Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. The Road Transport Corporation arranged special buses to accommodate festival travellers. The Railways also announced additional trains to manage the rush.
Dasara travel rush pushes up fares for festival travellers
Passengers raised concerns over rising travel costs during the holidays. The RTC reportedly charges 50 per cent extra for special buses during festivals. The corporation also expected fare increases on regular services.
A regular express bus ticket from Hyderabad to Karimnagar costs ₹280. Passengers using special buses could pay up to ₹420 for the same route. Deluxe and super luxury bus fares were also expected to rise.
The Railways announced 34 additional passenger trains to run from Saturday through October 25. Passengers travelling on these special trains will pay 30 per cent more than the regular fare.
A regular ticket from Secunderabad to Visakhapatnam costs ₹420. The fare on special trains could reach ₹530 to ₹550. The Railways scheduled the additional services to meet demand during the Dasara holidays.