Buses bounce back as LPG crisis disrupts auto sector; overcrowding raises concerns

Kolkata: Kolkata's bus services are witnessing a noticeable revival following the recent revision in auto-rickshaw fares, with operators reporting an increase in short-distance commuters. However, the resurgence has exposed a persistent demand-supply gap, resulting in overcrowded buses and concerns over whether the gains can be sustained.

Transport operators said the fare hike of Rs 2-5 on auto routes across the city has nudged many passengers — especially those travelling short distances of 3-4 km — back to buses, which remain one of the most affordable modes of public transport. But the surge is happening at a time when buses are at their lowest number, due to ECI requisition for the polls ahead.





"Over the past few days, we've seen a clear jump in passenger count, particularly on short routes. People who earlier preferred autos for convenience are now opting for buses because of the cost difference," said Titu Saha, secretary, City Suburban Bus Service.

Auto-rickshaw operators, meanwhile, acknowledged a dip in ridership after the fare revision but defended the hike as necessary. "Fuel prices and maintenance costs have gone up. We had no option but to revise fares," said Abdul Rahman, an auto driver operating on the Esplanade-Lohapool stretch. "Yes, some passengers have shifted to buses, but many will return if bus services remain overcrowded and unreliable," he added.

Commuters, however, are feeling the pinch of both higher auto fares and packed buses. "I used to take an auto for short distances, but now it's too expensive. So I've switched to buses, but they are so crowded that it's difficult to board during peak hours," said Sayani Sikdar, a college student.

Another commuter, Sandeep Dhara, an insurance employee, said, "Buses are cheaper, no doubt, but the frequency is an issue. When a bus finally arrives, it's already full," he said.

Operators admit that the system is struggling to cope with the sudden rise in demand. "There is definitely a mismatch right now," said Tapan Banerjee, secretary of a bus operators' syndicate. "Passenger numbers have increased, but the number of buses on the road hasn't gone up proportionately. This is leading to overcrowding, especially during peak hours." "We are concerned that if this trend continues, people might shift back to autos," Saha added. "No one wants to travel hanging from the footboard or squeezed inside a packed bus."

A sustained shift towards buses could reduce congestion and emissions, but only if service frequency and fleet size are increased to meet demand, said the former KMC director general (Town Planning), Dipankar Sinha.

"If authorities can improve availability and reliability, buses can regain a significant share of urban mobility. Otherwise, this shift may only be temporary," said transport researcher, Anindyo Guha.