West Bengal's long-pending bus fare revision moved closer to reality on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, after state Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Dilip Ghosh publicly backed a hike, a day after the Transport Department signalled it would initiate the revision process following Durga Puja. The last fare increase for buses and minibuses in the state was in 2018 — nearly eight years ago.

Minister's Stand at Eco Park

Speaking to reporters during his morning walk at Eco Park in New Town, Kolkata, Ghosh argued that fare revision was essential for generating revenue and improving passenger services. He framed the issue in broader economic terms, stating: 'There has been a trend of weakening government institutions in West Bengal. This cannot continue in any civilised country. We will not increase people's income, we will not increase rents. We cannot keep people poor and think we are doing them a favour.'

Ghosh also pointed to growing demand for premium services as evidence that commuters are willing to pay more for quality. 'AC bus bookings and seat bookings are done earlier. AC train bookings are done earlier as well because people are willing to spend extra money for better service. The fares have to be increased with the facilities. If the fares are not revised, then where will the revenue come from?' he said.

Transport Minister's Assurance to Bus Owners

State Transport Minister Arjun Singh had on Monday heard the demands of private bus owners at a formal meeting, assuring them that steps would be taken after Durga Puja. Apart from the fare revision, the meeting also addressed long-standing concerns of bus operators — including rising toll charges, alleged police harassment, vehicle requisition practices, and the status of older commercial vehicles.

Tapan Banerjee, General Secretary of the Joint Council of Bus Syndicates, expressed confidence in the minister's commitment. 'We are confident in the way he has listened to our demands. He has assured us that he will take action regarding the fare hike after the Puja. We have full faith in the minister,' Banerjee said.

Why Fares Have Been Frozen Since 2018

Bus and minibus fares in West Bengal were last revised in 2018, when the current Chief Minister — Suvendu Adhikari — held the Transport portfolio. Since then, fares have remained frozen even as fuel costs and other operating expenses have risen sharply. Bus owners argue this gap between operating costs and revenue has made many routes financially unviable, threatening the continuity of passenger services.

What Happens Next

The Transport Department is expected to begin formal consultations and the fare revision process after the Durga Puja holidays conclude. This comes amid broader pressure from bus operators across the state, who say the eight-year fare freeze has pushed many operators to the brink. The extent of the revision and the categories of buses covered remain to be announced by the department.