Increasing petrol prices have adversely affected the Indian automobile market. The latest hike of Rs. 7.50 has not only discouraged the prospective car buyers but also created dissatisfaction in the minds of existing car owners, who have decided to opt for public transport. Since the last two years, many car owners have been trying to cope up with the often price rise in fuel rates but then the abrupt increase of this magnitude has disrupted all their calculations.
According to a study conducted in Ahmedabad, more than 20,000 commuters lined up for the Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Services and Bus Rapid Transit System. Earlier, 1.08 lacs people used the BRTS but with the rise in the petrol prices, 1.13 lacs commuters have shifted to the public transport system. Once summer vacation ends and schools and colleges reopens, this number will increase further. People who often refrained from using the public transport due to its sorry conditions are now compelled to use it.
However, with the introduction of upscale buses with greater comfort and better management, public transport system has gained an important position.
