India, June 4 -- School bus operators in Maharashtra have hiked their fees by 15% starting this month, due to rising operational costs and a lack of financial support from the government, according to the School Bus Owners' Association (SOBA Maharashtra).

Bus operators said they have repeatedly urged the government, including the transport department, to provide financial support or offer practical solutions but, despite follow-ups, they received no positive response.

Anil Garg, president, SOBA Maharashtra, said, "The main reasons behind the 15 per cent increase is rising fuel and diesel prices, salary hikes for drivers, attendants and other staff, rising maintenance and repair costs, expensive spare parts, increased insurance and permi...