DHARAMSHALA: The residents of Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla will now have to shell out more for taxi services as the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has officially increased fares for its “Ride with Pride” taxis operating in the city.
The fare hike, which was approved during the 159th meeting of HRTC’s Board of Directors on February 22, 2025, at Hotel Holiday Home in Shimla has now been implemented.
2 categories exempted from fare hike
According to the new fare structure, each slab has seen an increase of Rs 10. However, senior citizens have been exempted from this hike and fares for taxis running on the Sanjauli-IGMC route remain unchanged at Rs 10 per trip.
Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister Mukesh Agnihotri had previously denied any planned fare hike. However, with the official notification now in effect, passengers will have to bear the additional cost.
HRTC Divisional Manager Deva Negi confirmed the increment, stating that while fares for senior citizens and patients remained unchanged, regular commuters would now face higher charges.
The fare revision has sparked discontent among the public, with many criticizing the government for increasing the financial burden on daily commuters. The hike will particularly affect those who rely on taxis for their routine travel within the city.
Fare comes amid HRTC’s financial struggles
The fare hike comes at a time when the HRTC is grappling with financial difficulties. Despite the implementation of new revenue-boosting measures such as a revised luggage policy and the discontinuation of loss-making routes, the transport body continues to struggle.
The state government provides HRTC with a monthly grant of Rs 70 crore, but the corporation requires approximately Rs 150 crore every month for expenses, salaries and pensions.
The fare increase is seen as an attempt to reduce financial strain, though it remains to be seen if it will significantly impact HRTC’s revenue deficit.
With this fare revision, daily travel costs in Shimla have gone up, adding to the already high cost of living in the city. The decision is likely to spark further debate, especially among the working-class population and students who depend on affordable public transport.
Sunil Chadda (TNR)
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