Noida bus fares on several routes have reportedly doubled ahead of Diwali as passengers travelling towards eastern Uttar Pradesh and other destinations struggle to find an affordable government transport option. The shortage has left many travellers dependent on private buses, with operators charging higher fares during the festival rush.
According to Navbharat Times, the Noida depot is not operating bus services on routes towards Purvanchal. Passengers travelling from Noida are therefore relying on private operators for journeys during the Diwali, Bhai Dooj and Chhath travel period. The report said passengers are paying about twice the usual fare on some services compared with normal days.
The affected routes mentioned in the report include Agra, Mathura, Etah, Etawah, Muzaffarnagar, Kasganj, Badaun, Firozabad and Kanpur. Travellers have also attempted online bookings, but the availability shown on booking platforms has been limited, adding to the pressure on those trying to reach their hometowns.
The report said some private operators are charging passengers the full fare even when two people are seated on a single sleeper berth. When questioned about the increase, operators reportedly cited the festival season and higher demand. The resulting dependence on private services has reduced passengers’ choices at a time when travel demand is elevated.
The Uttar Pradesh transport department has issued an advisory for bus, taxi and auto-rickshaw operators in view of the expected increase in passenger movement during Diwali, Bhai Dooj and Chhath. The department has warned that charging more than the prescribed fare during the festival period could lead to cancellation of a vehicle’s permit.
ARTO (Enforcement) Dr Udit Narayan Pandey said drivers must carry passengers only according to the vehicle’s approved capacity. The instructions prohibit allowing passengers to travel on footboards, roofs or by hanging from the rear of buses. The department has also warned that vehicles involved in overspeeding during the festival period may be blacklisted.
The advisory further states that drivers found operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol could face legal action and cancellation of their driving licences. Two-wheeler riders and pillion passengers have been instructed to wear helmets, while all passengers in cars and taxis must use seat belts.
The immediate issue for Noida passengers is the gap between festival travel demand and available public bus capacity on important intercity routes. The transport department’s stated response focuses on enforcement against overcharging, overloading and unsafe driving. The report does not specify when Noida depot services to the affected routes will resume.
