The government’s recent decision to increase fares by 18% is a step that will directly impact the most vulnerable sections of society. While authorities justify the move on the grounds of inflation and rising operational costs, the burden of such an increase will fall disproportionately on those who can least afford it: daily wage earners, small traders, students, and low-income families who depend on public transport. Public transport is more than just a convenience; it is a lifeline for millions. Workers commute long distances to sustain their livelihoods, students travel to pursue education, and the poor rely on affordable transport to access essential services. An 18% hike, especially when wages remain stagnant for many, risks pushing the cost of commuting beyond the reach of a significant population. This is particularly concerning in a country where a large majority still depends on buses, local trains, and shared transport for daily travel. The timing of this decision is also questionable. Inflation continues to strain household budgets, with rising prices of food, fuel, and essential commodities. Adding higher transport costs will leave families with even less disposable income for education, healthcare, and nutrition. In effect, the government risks deepening economic inequality instead of alleviating it. Authorities often cite financial sustainability as a reason for fare hikes. While operational costs and maintenance of transport services are valid concerns, the solution cannot be to pass the entire burden onto commuters. Governments should explore alternative measures: targeted subsidies for the poor, increasing efficiency, introducing digital tools to reduce operational costs, or seeking public-private partnerships that do not compromise affordability. A balanced approach can ensure that services remain sustainable without penalizing those already struggling to make ends meet. Public transport is not a luxury—it is a public good. Every hike in fare translates into a direct hit on household budgets and indirectly affects access to education, employment, and opportunities for upward mobility. Policymakers must remember that the poor form the backbone of the economy, and policies that disproportionately disadvantage them undermine social justice and economic growth. If this fare increase goes unchecked, the poor will bear the brunt while wealthier sections remain largely unaffected. The government must reconsider the decision and adopt measures that balance financial sustainability with social responsibility. Public transport should remain affordable, accessible, and inclusive for all.