THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The bus, auto and taxi fare might be hiked from May 1 onwards, said Transport Minister Antony Raju. It has been decided to appoint a special committee to evaluate the bus owners’ demand to increase students’ concession rates. The final decision on the concession rate would be taken only after examining the report of the committee, said the minister.

The K Swift bus accidents have not been taken seriously. It is only a small incident. However, it is suspected that the media has exaggerated it. The drivers have been given special instructions to remain cautious, said the minister. He also dismissed criticism that the drivers were not given adequate training.

With the salary revision in KSRTC, an additional Rs 40 crore has to be collected every month, explained the minister. The fuel price hike and the strike have increased KSRTC’s crisis. The cancellation of trips for the organizations’ conference was also a major setback, he said. The government has sought assistance for the distribution of salary and the salaries will be given as soon as clearance is received from the finance ministry, he added.