In a significant change, the Haryana Transport Department has discontinued age-based discounts on AC bus fares. Effective April 2, children aged 3-12 and senior citizens over 60 years old will now be required to pay the full ticket price on Haryana Roadways buses. The new directive, issued to all depot managers, aims to standardise the fare structure. Previously, children and senior citizens received a 50% discount on regular and AC bus tickets.
However, certain groups have been granted special concessions. Accredited journalists and their assistants can avail of two reserved seats on AC buses, with an annual travel limit of 4,000 km. Individuals affected by emergencies will receive a 75% discount on fares, and if they are widows or disabled, they can bring one assistant for free.
Former legislators over the age of 60 are also eligible for free travel, accompanied by one assistant. The changes have resulted in a significant fare hike. The journey from Kurukshetra to Delhi, for instance, now costs a flat rate of ₹330, up from the previous discounted rates for children and senior citizens.