Chennai: The bus fare revision by the transport department on Sunday only seems to have agitated the striking outfits a little more – the reason why they have announced further intensification of statewide protests from Monday.
“The reduction is almost nothing compared to the steep hike in the fares. The government is only fooling the public in the name of fare revision. Students studying in private colleges are worst hit, as the transport department does not provide any benefits to them. Only 3,12,000 students are availing 50 per cent concession”, said V. Mariappan, state president, SFI, while announcing a protest on Monday at Pallavan House.
Opposition party leaders have also announced protests on Monday for complete rollback. “We are paying Rs 6 to travel 10 km in an ordinary bus and now the fare has been reduced to Rs 5.80, which is actually nothing.
Similarly, travel by deluxe for 30 km has been reduced from Rs 27 to Rs 26.50 and one ticket would still cost Rs 27. It is only an eye-wash”, rued M. Karthik, a regular commuter.
Commuters said that if there was not to be a complete rollback, the fares must at least be reduced by 50 per cent for pocket- friendly travel. Right from the day one of hike, commuters have shifted to using share autos and suburban trains for pocket-friendly travel. Many students complained that the strike had severely affected them and they cannot afford the manifold increase.Terming it as exorbitant, they sought immediate withdrawal of the fare hike.
