Wed Jan 15 17:21:03 UTC 2025: ## Greenpeace Protests Proposed Fare Hikes for Bengaluru Public Transport
**Bengaluru, January 16, 2025** – Greenpeace India has urged the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) to reconsider recent and proposed fare increases for Namma Metro and public buses. The environmental organization warns that the hikes – a 40-45% increase for the metro, raising the base fare to ₹15 and maximum to ₹85, and a 15% increase for buses already implemented – will deter citizens from using public transport, exacerbating Bengaluru’s traffic congestion and pollution problems.
Greenpeace cites concerns that the increases, mirroring a similar situation in Delhi which reportedly saw a drop in metro ridership, will disproportionately affect lower-income groups who rely heavily on affordable public transport. Aakiz Farooq, a Greenpeace campaigner, stated that making public transport unaffordable contradicts its purpose and places an undue burden on those struggling financially.
The organization emphasizes the crucial role of efficient and affordable public transport in reducing private vehicle use and mitigating environmental damage. Greenpeace is calling for increased financial support from the state and central governments to cover operational and maintenance costs, suggesting the creation of a dedicated public transport fund to ensure long-term sustainability.
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