After mofussil buses, town buses, too, quietly ‘hike’ fares in Salem

Taking a cue from private mofussil buses, town buses in the district, too, have allegedly hiked fares, much to the dismay of commuters.

It may be recalled that a number of private mofussil buses in the district began collecting excess fares from passengers from the first week of July, reportedly without making any announcement or obtaining permission from the government.

Following complaints from the public, Salem and Namakkal district administrations warned bus operators against collecting excess fares, threatening action against violators. The warning seemed to have had little effect.

Subsequently, the Transport Department booked over 19 buses in Salem district and were waiting for the District Collector’s instruction for further action, sources said.

Meanwhile, allegations have been raised that town buses, as well as those heading to Namakkal, Krishnagiri and Dharmapuri districts, too, hiked fares, starting on Sunday (August 16).