Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, May 8,
The Himachal Pradesh government has officially notified a hike in bus fares across the state, placing an additional burden on commuters who depend on public transport. According to the Department of Transport’s notification issued, the revised fare rates for all stage carriage bus services—covering ordinary, deluxe, and AC/super luxury categories—are effective immediately.
As per the revised structure, ordinary bus services, including mini buses, will now charge ₹1.60 per kilometre in the plains, compared to the earlier ₹1.40, marking a 14.28 percent increase. In hilly areas, the fare has increased from ₹2.19 to ₹2.50 per kilometre, a hike of 14.15 percent. Deluxe bus fares have seen steeper rises, going up from ₹1.95 to ₹3.10 per kilometre in the plains—a jump of 58.97 percent—and from ₹3.10 to ₹4.00 per kilometre in hilly areas, an increase of 29.03 percent. The most substantial hikes are in the AC/super luxury category, where fares in the plains have risen from ₹3.90 to ₹5.20 per kilometre, up by 33.33 percent. In hilly regions, the fare has jumped from ₹5.20 to ₹6.50 per kilometre, representing a 25 percent hike.
Alongside these increases, the government has also revised the minimum fare. The minimum amount charged for the first four kilometres of travel has been doubled from ₹5 to ₹10 for all stage carriage buses, regardless of category. This decision, approved by the state cabinet on April 5, 2025, has already drawn criticism from opposition groups and the public, who argue that the common man is being unfairly burdened during a time of economic strain.
The official notification also clarified that the newly announced fares are maximum permissible rates, inclusive of all applicable taxes. It added that future revisions will be undertaken periodically by the Department of Transport, keeping in view the inflation index and subject to the approval of the Minister-in-Charge.
Defending the fare hike, government officials have pointed to rising fuel prices, increasing vehicle maintenance costs, and the ongoing financial distress being faced by the state. However, for the public—especially daily commuters and low-income groups—the move has come as an unwelcome jolt. Voices of discontent are rising across districts, with many passengers expressing concern over affordability and access to essential travel.
As the debate over the fare hike intensifies, its long-term impact on public transport usage and mobility in Himachal Pradesh remains to be seen.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
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