Yadav justifies fare hike

New Delhi, Jan 7:  Andhra Pradesh Road Transport Corporation Managing Director SSP Yadav on Thursday justified the Government’s decision to jack up fares. Addressing a press conference here on Thursday on his way to Agra, Yadav said the RTC incurred a loss of Rs 160 crore in the recent agitations in the State which forced the authorities to effect the hike. The rise in operational costs, which has gone up by 36 per cent is the other reason for the rise in fares.``If you don’t hike the fares, you will have to close down the RTC. Compared to other states, the fares in Andhra Pradesh are reasonable.

The increase in fares will not hit the ordinary man much but only the rich. Keeping in mind the poor, we have gone in for this hike,’’ the MD explained.When asked whether the orders on fare hike were issued without consulting the Government, the senior cop clarified that everything was done as per the norms.  The RTC board did not do anything against the law, the senior cop said.He denied having made allegations against Chief Minister K.Rosaiah which appeared in a section of the press. ‘‘This story was planted by a particular newspaper which wanted to tarnish my name,’’ the  MD observed.

When confronted with a question that the people and other political parties are not happy with the increase in fares, Yadav said it is none of his botherations. The decision was taken in order to bail out the RTC from a deep crisis, the MD explained.Regarding his trip to Agra, the senior cop said ``I am free to go anywhere in the country. I need not take any one’s permission.’’Posed with the question about his future, he averred ``I am a government employee, wherever they post me  I will serve.’’