Maharashtra minister rejects 15% bus fare hike ahead of Diwali

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has rejected a proposal to increase state transport bus fares by 15% during Diwali. He cited the difficulties people face due to drought conditions and rising inflation. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) had proposed the fare hike from November 1 to 15, 2026, to address its financial challenges during the festive rush.