Private bus fares on routes serving Mumbai, Pune and other Maharashtra destinations have reportedly risen to as much as Rs 7,000 ahead of Diwali, prompting passenger complaints and a special inspection campaign by the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO).
Passengers have alleged that some private tourist bus operators are charging two to three times their usual fares during the festive travel rush. One fare cited in passenger complaints reportedly increased from Rs 700 to Rs 4,000, while tickets on some routes were reported to have reached Rs 6,000-7,000.
The complaints have surfaced as passengers struggle to secure seats on buses, trains and flights before Diwali. Several users criticised Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and the transport department on social media, questioning whether private bus fares are subject to any controls.
The Pune RTO began a special inspection drive on 1 November to check private contract buses accused of excessive fare collection. The campaign will continue until 20 November 2026, according to the report. RTO officials said private buses cannot charge more than 1.5 times the fare of the corresponding Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) service.
Operators are also required to display a fare chart inside their buses. The inspection teams will check whether buses are operating with valid permits, carrying passengers beyond their permitted capacity and maintaining mandatory safety equipment.
Passenger complaints on social media included questions about the steep gap between normal fares and festive-season ticket prices. One user said that a ticket had risen from Rs 700 to Rs 4,000, while another questioned how passengers booking at the last minute were expected to travel to their families when fares reached levels close to air tickets.
The issue highlights the pressure placed on Maharashtra’s intercity transport network during the annual festive migration from large urban centres. For passengers, the fare question is linked not only to ticket availability but also to whether private operators are complying with the conditions governing contract bus services.
The Pune RTO has asked passengers to share the details of the bus and a photograph of their ticket when reporting alleged overcharging. Complaints can be registered through the toll-free helpline 1800-22-0110. The authorities said action would be taken against operators found charging more than permitted.
Transport Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar could not be contacted for comment, according to the report. The inspection campaign is scheduled to remain in operation through 20 November, with permit compliance, passenger capacity, safety equipment and fare displays forming part of the checks.
