KSRTC hikes luggage charges from Feb 16
Bengaluru (PTI): The KSRTC has revised its luggage charges, effective from February 16.
"In view of the increase in diesel, staff, and other expenses, the rates for luggage carried in the corporation’s buses have been revised. The revised rates will come into effect from 16-02-2026," Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation said in a recent circular.
According to officials, luggage charges are typically revised whenever passenger fares are increased.
"However, last year, when bus fares were hiked in January 2025, luggage rates were not revised. Hence, the luggage charges have now been increased with effect from tomorrow," they said on Sunday.
Officials further noted that the last revision of luggage charges was in December 2021. "Up to 30 kg is free; beyond that, charges apply," they added.
As per reports, luggage charges have been increased by around 15 per cent, in line with the fare hike implemented in 2025. The rates have been fixed according to travel stages.
Luggage charges will be Rs 6 for stages 1-5, Rs 12 for stages 6-10, Rs 20 for stages 11-15, and Rs 25 for stages 16-20.
Charges have been revised stage by stage, reaching Rs 145 for stages 156 to 160.
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Karnataka health dept mandates heat stroke units across hospitals
Bengaluru (PTI): The Karnataka government on Friday directed state-run health facilities to set up dedicated ‘heat stroke management rooms’ to address risks from extreme temperatures, officials said.
In a circular issued, the Commissionerate of Health and Family Welfare Services said community health centres should earmark two beds, taluk hospitals five beds, and district hospitals 10 beds for heat stroke management.
The circular, issued under the National Action Plan on Heat-Related Illnesses, stated that these facilities must be made operational every year, including in 2026, from March 1 to July 31.
All doctors and paramedical staff have been instructed to undergo training in the management of Heat-Related Illnesses (HRI).
It also directed all health institutions to establish ORS corners and equip heat stroke management rooms with essential facilities such as fans, ice cubes, and thermometers.
All health facilities at every level have been instructed to submit daily reports on HRI cases through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), the circular said.
The health department said the measures aim to prevent heat stroke-related complications and deaths amid rising temperatures and has directed authorities concerned to submit compliance reports on implementation.
