India, June 3 -- With many schools reopening on June 3, parents across the city have started receiving messages informing them of increased transportation charges from school bus and van operators. Operators attributed the hike to rising fuel prices and escalating operational expenses.

"Fuel prices, along with the cost of spare parts, tyres and routine servicing, have increased significantly, leaving us with no option but increase transport fees by around 10 per cent to absorb the additional expenses," said Rajesh Shirodkar, a bus operator serving schools in Kothrud and Karvenagar.

Bipin Aware, who operates school van services in Baner and Balewadi, said, "Apart from fuel costs, we have to bear expenses related to insurance, permits, ma...