Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) teams have launched a special enforcement drive against private bus operators charging excessive fares from Diwali travellers, with inspections continuing across major boarding points until 20 November 2026. The campaign also covers passenger safety, vehicle documentation and ticketing practices.
The action follows complaints that private bus operators were raising fares during the festive travel period, when demand for journeys to towns and villages increases. The RTO said the drive was initiated under directions from the Transport Commissioner, with special teams deployed at key locations in and around Pune.
Inspections are being carried out at Swargate, Wagheshwar parking, Hadapsar, Balewadi, the Mumbai Highway, Yerawada, Chandan Nagar, Satara Road, Sangamwadi parking and Wakadewadi. Officers have also been directed to inspect private bus reservation offices and verify both online and offline tickets.
Under transport rules cited by the RTO, the fare charged by a private contract bus for the relevant service cannot exceed one-and-a-half times the applicable Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) fare. The RTO has warned that operators charging more than the permitted amount may face action. Booking applications found facilitating excessive fares may also be proceeded against, according to the report.
A meeting with 26 representatives of private bus associations was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Regional Transport Officer Swapnil Bhosale. The discussions focused on preventing arbitrary fare increases and ensuring compliance with transport regulations. Private bus owners and operators were instructed to keep permits, driver badges, fitness certificates, pollution-under-control certificates and insurance documents updated.
The directions also cover road safety. Operators were told to follow prescribed speed limits, avoid carrying passengers beyond the vehicle’s capacity and ensure that drivers do not operate vehicles after consuming alcohol. Every bus must have a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit, the RTO said.
Regional Transport Officer Archana Gaikwad issued an order on 30 October directing private bus owners to prominently display fare boards at departure points. The boards must state the maximum fare that can be charged per seat on different routes. This requirement is intended to give passengers access to fare information before boarding.
Passengers can report alleged overcharging or difficulties during travel to the RTO through WhatsApp on 8275330101. The office has asked complainants to send their name, mobile number and a photograph of the ticket. Road safety teams are inspecting buses, and the RTO said some vehicles had already faced penal action during the campaign.
The enforcement drive will remain in effect through 20 November 2026. The RTO has asked private bus owners and drivers to comply with fare and safety rules as festive travel demand rises.
