Private buses in Mangaluru to resume operations from Jul 1

Mangaluru: Private buses will resume in the district from July 1. Following the Covid protocols, the buses will operate on 50 percent seating capacity.

While resumption of bus operations comes as a relief for commuters, a 20 percent hike proposed in fares is likely to burden them more.

Dr. K V Rajendra, the deputy commissioner passed orders permitting the operation of buses with 50% seating capacity from last Monday, June 28. But despite the order, the private buses preferred to wait and decided to ply from July 1. Vehicle fitness, condition, development works in the city, and fuel price are few reasons why the bus owners association decided to wait till July 1.

In the first stage, the bus fare will be increased by 20%. The DC shall conduct a meeting regarding the same with the RTO and owners.

The guidelines mention that buses must operate with 50% seating capacity, social distance should be maintained, masks should be worn, sanitization should be done.