Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses from Nagpur will not face the proposed 15 per cent seasonal fare hike during the Diwali rush, following the rejection of the proposal by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday. The ST administration had proposed increasing fares from November 1 to 15, 2026, to cater to the festive rush. However, Sarnaik said the hike would add to the financial burden of citizens already grappling with drought, inflation and rising living costs. The decision is expected to provide relief to passengers travelling from Nagpur to their native places during Diwali, though the extent of the benefit will depend on travel demand and routes.

 

The corporation’s iconic ‘Lalpari’ buses remain a key transport lifeline for rural commuters, including farmers, agricultural labourers, students, employees and senior citizens. A fare increase during the festive period would have raised their travel expenses. Sarnaik said the corporation’s financial challenges should be addressed through alternative measures rather than passing the burden on to passengers. He stressed the need to maintain safe, reliable and affordable services connecting remote villages with cities. The rejection comes ahead of Diwali, when passenger movement generally increases as people travel to meet family members.