Bengaluru: Amidst pressure from various groups, the government has decided to cut the fares of BMTC and KSRTC services. The fare cut, which will be effected after a steep fall in the prices of diesel, will be announced by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Wednesday.

The Bangalore Bus Prayaanikara Vedike had been demanding revision of fares for a long time now. The last fare hike last year was criticised by all sections of people.

Vinay Sreenivasa of the Vedike said, “Diesel prices and bus fare should not be linked. The government should consider the earnings of the people and keep the fares low to encourage more number of commuters to use buses. This will not only reduce pressure on roads, but also cut down pollution.”

He said, “We want BMTC to charge 50 paisa per km and the government should immediately announce a road map to achieve this target and withdraw the 15-25 per cent fare hike announced last year”

The Vedike has proposed Rs 5 for a 10 km ride, Rs 10 for 11 - 20 km, Rs 15 for over 21 km, Rs 25 for a day pass and Rs 250 for month.