Crude oil, Diesel & petrol prices have dropped drastically yet TN govt has not reduced fares inspite of lower operating costs.

Sharply criticizing the AIADMK administration for maintaining exorbitant bus fares despite drastic reductions in diesel and petrol prices, DMK Treasurer M. K. Stalin condemned the state government for its callous disregard of commuter welfare. Stalin noted that when diesel prices increased marginally in previous years, the ruling government was remarkably swift in imposing crippling fare hikes on public bus services across Tamil Nadu, burdening ordinary citizens. However, when global crude oil prices plummeted and fuel operational costs dropped substantially, the administration showed zero inclination to reduce ticket prices for passengers. He emphasized that state transport corporations are public service institutions designed to facilitate affordable mobility for workers, daily wage laborers, and rural students rather than commercial entities meant to extract surplus revenue from the vulnerable. Stalin pointed out that while private carriers and surrounding states adjusted their operational models, Tamil Nadu's state buses remained prohibitively expensive and plagued by poor maintenance. He called upon the transport department to immediately revise fare structures downwards, ensuring that lower operating expenses translate directly into affordable travel and financial relief for ordinary citizens across the state.