APSRTC fuel cost jumps ₹1.8 lakh daily after diesel price hike
A sharp rise in diesel prices has begun to strain the finances of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation), with north coastal operations taking a direct hit as daily fuel costs rise across key districts.
The ₹3.14 per litre increase has pushed up operating expenses for a fleet of about 950 buses serving Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, and Alluri Sitharama Raju districts. Of these, 710 buses operate from the Visakhapatnam region and 200 from Anakapalli.
Together, the fleet consumes nearly 57,000 litres of diesel every day. The price revision has added an estimated ₹1,78,980 to daily expenditure, translating into a monthly additional burden of about ₹53.69 lakh, tightening the corporation’s operational finances.
An internal performance review shows the fleet’s average fuel efficiency at 4.63 km per litre, with noticeable variation across routes. The Visakhapatnam–Yellamanchili corridor has emerged as the most efficient stretch, recording about 5.20 kmpl, aided by smoother traffic flow on National Highway 16 (National Highway 16).
However, city operations continue to lag due to congestion, frequent halts, and prolonged idling, which reduce mileage and increase fuel consumption.
In response, APSRTC has intensified maintenance checks and operational monitoring. Regional Manager B. Appala Naidu said all buses will undergo detailed inspections every 15 days to curb inefficiencies.
He said the focus will be on identifying mechanical faults that lead to higher fuel consumption and black smoke emissions, while ensuring compliance with environmental and efficiency standards.
Alongside this, the corporation has rolled out training programmes for drivers and maintenance staff aimed at improving fuel efficiency. The sessions focus on reducing unnecessary idling, improving gear-shifting practices, and encouraging smoother braking techniques.
Officials said even small improvements in overall mileage could help save several lakh rupees every month, offering some relief to the corporation without an immediate need to revise fares.