Bus operators reduce fleet following fuel price hike
Passengers availing private and minibuses for their daily commute will very soon face a tough time availing buses.
Passengers availing private and minibuses for their daily commute will very soon face a tough time availing buses.
Private and mini bus operators of five organisations have threatened to go on a three-day strike, if the state government does not address their 'issues' by 20 May.
The members also submitted a deputation to the department demanding extension of time for plying of 15-year-old vehicles.
“The lockdowns during the Covid times brought before us an extreme financial crisis. Till a few weeks back, there were hardly any passengers during the lean time. It was only the pre-Puja rush when we are having packed buses in all the three trips,”
According to the complaints, conductors are taking Rs 10 while minimum fare is Rs 7 or Rs 8 for single ride from each passenger. A section of conductors are also allegedly misbehaving with passengers if they face refusal to pay from passengers.
We would welcome it if the government converts our vehicles for us. But given the present situation, for converting the buses we would not be able to bear the expenses. We, therefore, demand financial assistance of rupees 2.5 lakhs for converting our buses into dual engines or rupees six lakhs for turning into a CNG-run vehicle,”
The department has warned the bus operators of stern action as per Motor Vehicles Act if the owners fail to adhere to the official rate chart. The bus operators, on the contrary, have said that running services at the official rate chart, is very difficult amid the soaring petrol prices.
