Transport Department cracks down on exorbitant bus fares during Gauri Ganesha festival

In a major relief to passengers traveling home for the Gauri Ganesha festival, the Transport Department has launched a strict crackdown on private bus operators collecting exorbitant fares.

For the past three days, officials have been conducting intensive checks across the city to curb illegal fare hikes. The operation comes in response to widespread complaints from passengers who were forced to pay several times the normal ticket price.

Also read: Karnataka: Bus fares soar ahead of Gowri–Ganesha festival, commuters shocked

Special teams for enforcement

To enforce the rules, 11 special teams comprising four members each were deployed in different parts of Bengaluru. Their inspections resulted in action against 497 vehicles found violating transport regulations. Officials confirmed that one private bus has been seized, and fines totaling ₹5.51 lakh have been collected from offending operators.

Transport authorities have made it clear that these checks will continue until the end of the festival period. The department had earlier issued strict warnings to private bus owners, instructing them not to exploit passengers during the festive rush.

Despite the warning, several operators reportedly ignored the directive, leading to strong punitive measures. “Passengers should not be burdened with additional fares during festivals. Violators will face strict legal action,” officials said.

The department has urged commuters to report instances of overcharging, assuring that swift action will follow. With operations still underway, the move is expected to deter private operators from profiteering and bring much-needed relief to festive travelers.