Maharashtra Govt Forms Special Committee To Curb Illegal Bus Fare Hikes, Booking App Exploitation
Maharashtra Govt Forms Special Committee To Curb Illegal Bus Fare Hikes, Booking App Exploitation
Mumbai, May 13, 2026: The Maharashtra government has taken serious note of illegal fare hikes by private passenger bus operators and the financial exploitation of travellers through unauthorised mobile booking applications. During a meeting held at Mantralaya on Tuesday, officials directed the formation of a special committee to address passenger complaints and recommend long-term corrective measures.
The committee will comprise the Joint Transport Commissioner along with three representatives from the Surajya Abhiyan organisation. It has been tasked with preparing a detailed report on controlling arbitrary fare increases by private bus operators, curbing illegal booking apps, and suggesting effective mechanisms to resolve passenger grievances.
The meeting was attended by Transport Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, Additional Transport Commissioner Bharat Kalaskar, and Surajya Abhiyan representatives Abhishek Murukate, Arvind Pansare, and Sunil Hanwat, among others. The government stated that another review meeting will be held after the committee submits its report, and the recommended measures will be implemented on priority.
Authorities noted that several private travel companies are currently accepting bookings through unauthorised applications and charging exorbitant ticket prices during festivals and holiday seasons. The government warned that strict action would be taken against operators involved in overcharging passengers and stated that exploitation of commuters would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The government also stressed the need to strengthen communication systems at bus depots across the state. Instructions were issued to make passenger assistance contact numbers available at every bus station. The Transport Department has also been directed to issue a circular regarding updated village names and the proper use of grammatically correct Marathi language in official communication and signage.
Meanwhile, repeated complaints have been received regarding poor cleanliness in MSRTC buses and bus stations. The government said concrete steps are being taken to improve and maintain sanitation standards at bus depots. From June 1, toilets at all MSRTC bus stations across Maharashtra will be made free for passengers as part of efforts to improve commuter facilities.
