The Karnataka BJP criticized the Congress-led government for increasing Bengaluru Metro fares, stating that it will burden the public and worsen traffic congestion in the city. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) officially raised fares by five percent, effective from February 9. BJP’s state president, B.Y. Vijayendra, expressed concerns that the fare hike would add financial pressure on the city’s residents and exacerbate the existing traffic issues.
The BJP leader highlighted the challenges faced by commuters in Bengaluru due to the increasing number of vehicles, making daily travel in the city extremely difficult. He criticized the state government for what he deemed an unscientific decision to raise Metro fares, describing it as an additional strain on the public. Vijayendra emphasized that the government’s actions, including previous hikes in excise duty and other levies, have further burdened the people of Karnataka.
In response to the fare hike, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka accused the Congress-led government of exploiting passengers by increasing Metro fares. Ashoka condemned the government’s move, labeling it as daylight robbery and urging an immediate halt to the fare increase. Bengaluru Central BJP MP P.C. Mohan highlighted the continuous burden on commuters, with a 5 percent fare hike annually, attributing the decision to the withdrawal of financial support by the Karnataka government.
