Andhra Pradesh Transport Department Takes Strong Action Against Festive Fare Hikes
The Andhra Pradesh transport department has launched a major crackdown on private bus operators. Officials booked more than 1,100 cases during the Sankranti festive season. These cases target operators who charged passengers excessively high fares and broke various transport rules.
Massive Enforcement Drive Nets Hundreds of Violators
Transport Commissioner Manish Kumar Sinha provided detailed figures. His department registered 1,115 cases against private bus operators until January 14. Out of these, authorities specifically filed 265 cases for overcharging passengers. The remaining 850 cases involved other violations.
These additional violations included operating buses without valid tax payments. Many operators also ran services without proper permits. The transport department imposed substantial penalties on the violators. Overall fines reached an impressive sixty-eight lakh rupees.
Passengers Report Skyrocketing Ticket Prices on Key Routes
Numerous passengers came forward with complaints. They reported that private bus operators dramatically increased ticket prices during the festival week. This happened on several busy routes across the region.
Affected routes included connections between:
- Secunderabad and Vizag
- Secunderabad and Vijayawada
- Secunderabad and Chittoor
- Secunderabad and Anantapur
- Vijayawada and Srikakulam
- Bengaluru and Vijayawada
- Bengaluru and Amalapuram
- Chennai and Vizag
V Ganesh, a private firm employee, shared a specific example. Regular ticket fares for air-conditioned sleeper services between Secunderabad and Vizag typically cost between two thousand and twenty-five hundred rupees. During the festive week from January 10 to 14, these fares suddenly surged. Passengers had to pay between four thousand and forty-five hundred rupees for the same service.
Department Intensifies Raids as Return Journey Begins
Transport officials announced they will intensify their raids starting Friday night. These enhanced inspections will continue until January 20. Authorities express concern that private operators might try to fleece passengers again. This could happen during the return journey after the Sankranti festival.
Commissioner Sinha explained their proactive approach. The department intensified inspections and initiated strict action against operators found exploiting the festive rush. They specifically targeted those charging exorbitant ticket prices.
Helpline and Monitoring Systems Provide Relief to Passengers
The transport department implemented several measures to protect passengers. Officials instructed private bus operators to display a helpline number prominently on every bus. The number 9281607001 allows passengers to report overcharging and other issues directly.
This system proved effective during the festival. The department received calls from passengers in various locations including Bengaluru, Secunderabad, Vijayawada and Chennai. These calls reported high ticket prices. Department teams responded immediately to resolve each issue.
Authorities also monitored ticket prices on online booking platforms. This tracking helped them identify operators charging excessive fares. Some private bus operators reduced their increased fares following complaints to Road Transport Authority personnel. Increased enforcement drives against extra fares also contributed to this positive change.
APSRTC Steps Up to Meet Passenger Demand
Despite special buses operated by APSRTC and special trains running between various cities, many passengers still depended heavily on private buses. Various reasons contributed to this continued reliance.
To address the increased demand during the return journey period, APSRTC made an important decision. The corporation will operate special buses to various destinations. This move aims to ensure adequate and fairly priced travel options for all passengers.
Department Issues Clear Advisory to Travelers
The Transport department issued strong advice to passengers. They recommended using authorized transport services for their journeys. These include APSRTC buses or private buses operating with proper permits.
Choosing authorized services ensures several benefits for passengers:
- Enhanced safety during travel
- Better comfort throughout the journey
- Reasonable and regulated fares
The department reiterated its firm commitment to passenger welfare. Officials emphasized their dedication to ensuring fair fares for everyone. They also promised continued focus on safe travel conditions. Strict enforcement of transport laws remains their top priority.
