RTOs asked to stop buses from overcharging during Rath Yatra | Bhubaneswar News – Times of India

Bhubaneswar: Govt has asked RTOs to take comprehensive measures to protect Rath Yatra pilgrims from being overcharged by bus operators. Several joint enforcement teams, consisting of transport officials and police personnel, will be deployed to carry out surprise inspections of buses.State transport commissioner Amitabh Thakur said bus owners’ associations have been cautioned against exploiting devotees, emphasising strict compliance with official fare rates.The current fare structure allows ordinary buses to charge 89 paisa per km, express buses 92 paisa per km, deluxe buses Rs 1.27 paisa per km, AC deluxe Rs 1.55 paisa per km and super premium buses Rs 2.41 paisa per km.“The govt is committed to prevent exploitation of devotees during their bus travels. We will lay emphasis on compliance with the actual bus fare structure by the transporters. They should not overcharge devotees during the festival period. The enforcement squads will conduct surprise checks and take action against violators,” Thakur said.The enforcement drive will focus on routes connecting Puri with major destinations like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Berhampur, Rourkela and Sambalpur. Officials will verify if operators are displaying fare charts prominently and adhering to approved rates.First-time offenders will face hefty fines, while repeat violations could result in permit cancellations. “This is a much-needed step. Every year, thousands of devotees face exploitation. Strict enforcement of the decision is required to ensure that the spiritual journey remains affordable for all,” said Debasis Das, secretary of Srikhetra Swabhiman Mancha, a Puri-based social outfit.Transport authorities have urged bus operators to submit applications for special route permits to Puri from various districts and states during the festival. Previous year’s Rath Yatra saw about 500 buses requesting special permits for routes connecting Puri.“We will ensure grant of special permits to bus operators promptly so that adequate buses are pressed on routes connecting Puri from other districts and states. Parking places are being finalised by the police,” said another transport official.The govt plans to deploy 100 autorickshaws offering complimentary transport for devotees between Talabani bus stand and Zilla School Chhak for convenient access to the Grand Road.