Chittoor DTC warns bus operators against excess fares during Sankranti rush

Chittoor Deputy Transport Commissioner (DTC) Niranjan Reddy on Friday cautioned private travel and contract carriage bus operators against charging excess or unauthorised fares, warning of strict legal action for violations.

At a review and awareness meeting with operators at the DTC office, Mr. Reddy stressed that passenger safety and convenience must remain the top priority. He urged operators to treat commuters respectfully and barred them from cancelling or delaying pre-announced schedules, which cause severe inconvenience.

The DTC prohibited rash driving, overspeeding, and negligent operation, directing operators to deploy only experienced drivers, adhere to rest norms, and provide two drivers for long-distance services. All buses must carry functional fire safety equipment and prominently display the government helpline 9281607001 for emergencies. Operators were also instructed to maintain all statutory documents, including tax receipts, fitness certificates, permits, and insurance.