Hyderabad: Yet another inflation bomb has landed squarely on the pockets of Telangana’s daily commuters, with TGSRTC announcing a sweeping hike in bus pass fares across the state starting Monday. From ordinary workers to students, the hike has sparked a storm of criticism, with many accusing the government of making the common man pay the price for populist freebies.
The fare revision is sharp and immediate. The ordinary monthly pass has jumped from ₹1,150 to ₹1,400. The Metro Express pass now costs ₹1,600, up from ₹1,300, while the Metro Deluxe pass has risen from ₹1,450 to ₹1,800. Even Green Metro AC passes in Greater Hyderabad weren’t spared, with revised rates now in effect.
Students, too, have been hit. With colleges reopening this week, many returning to campuses were caught off guard by the increased rates for student passes. “The hike couldn’t have come at a worse time,” said a degree student near Dilsukhnagar. “We’re just trying to resume classes, and this is the welcome we get.”
Commuters in Hyderabad and other towns erupted in protest, especially male passengers who questioned the government’s logic. “Women travel free, and we are made to cover the deficit. Is this social justice?” asked a visibly agitated private employee at Mehdipatnam bus depot.
Many see the move as a clear imbalance in the state’s subsidy policy. “This government is burning holes in our pockets to fund its schemes. We’ve turned into collateral damage,” said a senior citizen who relies on the RTC for daily travel.
Transport officials defended the hike, citing rising operational costs and the need to sustain services across the state. But that hasn’t softened the blow for thousands who depend on public transport daily.
