Shimla RTO cracks down on private buses, imposes ₹62,000 in fines
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Shimla intensified its efforts to ensure safer and more reliable public transport by conducting a thorough inspection of private buses on Thursday. The operation, which took place in areas like Khalini, Hiranagar, and Totu, uncovered multiple violations, resulting in fines totaling ₹62,000.
During the inspection of 20 private buses, officials identified several common infractions, including overloading, drivers and conductors not wearing uniforms, failure to issue tickets, and operating buses without valid fitness certificates. Adding to passenger grievances, the use of loud music systems inside buses was flagged as a major disturbance.
One of the most alarming findings was the continued practice of conductors collecting fares without issuing tickets. This malpractice not only cheats passengers but also erodes public trust in the transportation system. Eight buses were specifically fined for this violation.
Beyond ticketing issues, other concerns included overloading, speeding, improper parking, and incidents of private buses obstructing state-run HRTC buses or refusing to give way, further aggravating traffic congestion in the city.
RTO Shimla’s head, Anil Kumar Sharma, underscored the need for stricter enforcement to curb these recurring issues. He acknowledged the rampant issue of non-ticketing by conductors and announced plans to expand inspections to include luxury buses like Volvos.
While the recent action highlights the RTO’s commitment, addressing these challenges calls for a multi-pronged approach. Regular inspections, stringent penalties, and increased regulation are essential to ensure Shimla’s public transport system is not only efficient but also safe and commuter-friendly.
