Nagpur: With Diwali travel demand skyrocketing, the state transport department launched a special drive from October 21 to November 9 to curb overcharging by private bus operators.
Complaints surged as bus operators on key routes such as Pune, Nashik, and Hyderabad hiked fares by as much as 300%, with tickets priced at Rs 3,000 instead of the usual Rs 1,000.
To address these concerns, state transport commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar instructed regional and deputy transport officers to enforce the fare cap outlined in a govt order from April 2018. This rule prohibits private contract buses from charging more than 50% above the rates set by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC).
"Overcharging is a recurring issue despite regulations, and we are taking swift action to protect passengers," Bhimanwar said.
The special drive will include the deployment of flying squads to monitor both online and offline ticket bookings, ensuring operators adhere to fare limits. These squads will also inspect bus permits, vehicle safety measures, including fire extinguishers and emergency exits, and overall compliance with road safety regulations. Penalties will be imposed on operators found violating the rules, and detailed reports will be submitted for further action.
To assist passengers, fare charts will be displayed prominently at all boarding points, outlining the maximum permissible fares per kilometre and seat. A dedicated helpline will also be provided for passengers to report fare violations. Bhimanwar urged travellers to lodge complaints with local transport offices, complete with evidence of overcharging, for prompt action against errant operators.
Meanwhile, the Nagpur division of Central Railway is stepping up to manage the festive rush by proposing additional train services from November 2 to 10, including daily trains between Nagpur and Pune, and Nagpur and Mumbai.
A tri-weekly service between Nagpur and Danapur was also proposed from October 30 to November 13 to accommodate the Chhath Puja rush. These services are in addition to the Nagpur-Pune bi-weekly festival special trains, which extended operations from October 21 to November 12.
Bookings for all these trains are available at computerised reservation centres and on the IRCTC website.
The MSRTC is also pitching in by introducing 43 additional buses from Nagpur and Bhandara to Pune starting October 24. Deputy General Manager Shrikant Gabhne confirmed that no extra charges would be imposed during the festive season, providing much-needed relief to passengers. The additional buses are part of the broader plan to handle the significant increase in travellers during Diwali.
The combined efforts of the state transport department, Central Railway, and MSRTC aim to ensure passengers can travel safely and affordably during the busy Diwali season.