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Maharashtra: Finding buses to be difficult this poll season

During the summer season, many people hire these buses for 2-3 days and take off to nearby tourist locations like Alibaug, Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Pune, Daman and Diu.

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Elections across the state are sure to affect travel plans for many who were looking to go on a quick trip. Private bus services are likely to take a hit this election season as of the 7000 private buses, around 2400 have been earmarked for election duties. Thus, fewer private buses will be available on rent in April and May.

During the summer season, many people hire these buses for 2-3 days and take off to nearby tourist locations like Alibaug, Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Pune, Daman and Diu. This demand doubles the fares of private buses every summer. This year, the rates could go up by another 15-20 per cent than usual due to a shortfall of buses.

Around 1000 buses have already taken off the road for the campaign. From April 23, more buses will be deployed for election duty. Similarly, a considerable number of private bus services across the state would be curtailed for election work.

"These buses are not just part of election campaigns of political parties. They will also be used for transportation of government staff who are on election duty," said a member of Mumbai Bus Malak Sanghatana.

Many of these buses are also used to ferry people from interior villages to rallies conducted by the political leaders.

"The shrinking of the fleet will affect travel plans for many during these two months. The fares too will increase due to high demand and lesser availability of buses," said a bus transport owner on condition of anonymity.

Not just private buses, even the kaali-peeli cabs and BEST buses are part of the election proceedings. This year, over 1300 black and yellow cabs have been earmarked for election duties, for which each cabbie will be paid around Rs 2000.

OFF THE ROAD

Of the 7000 private buses, around 2400 have been earmarked for election duties. Around 1000 buses have already taken off the road for the campaign. From April 23, more buses will be deployed for election duty

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