Private Bus Operators Face Licence Suspension For Illegal Parcel Transport, Warns Maharashtra Transport Minister
Private Bus Operators Face Licence Suspension For Illegal Parcel Transport, Warns Maharashtra Transport Minister (Representative Image )
Renuka Suryavanshi
Pune, June 23, 2026: Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has announced stringent action against private passenger bus operators found transporting courier parcels or illegal goods. Speaking during the Question Hour in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Monday, Sarnaik said repeated violations could lead to suspension and eventual cancellation of operating licences.
The minister stated that enforcement teams regularly inspect private passenger buses involved in goods transportation and take action against violators. However, the government has now decided to adopt a stricter approach under Section 86 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Under the revised enforcement framework:
- First violation: Licence suspension for 7 to 10 days
- Second violation: Suspension for 10 to 15 days
- Third violation: Suspension for 15 to 30 days
- Fourth violation: Licence cancellation
The issue was raised in the Assembly by BJP MLA Shankar Jagtap, while legislators Bhaskar Jadhav, Sunil Prabhu and Siddharth Shirole participated in the discussion through supplementary questions.
Over 5,700 Vehicles Penalised
Sarnaik informed the House that enforcement drives conducted during 2025-26 resulted in action against 5,728 offending private passenger vehicles engaged in unauthorized goods transportation. Penalties amounting to ₹4.61 crore were recovered during the period.
Additionally, between April 1 and May 31, 2026, authorities took action against 1,454 vehicles and collected fines totaling ₹78.18 lakh.
ST Bus Fleet Strengthened
The minister also stated that the state transport undertaking has procured 8,300 buses, ensuring there is currently no shortage of State Transport (ST) buses. He added that additional buses can be provided to constituencies if requested by elected representatives.
Action Against Unauthorized Bus Stops
Addressing concerns over buses stopping at unauthorized locations, Sarnaik said steps are being taken to ensure that buses halt only at designated and approved bus stops.
The Transport Department has sought information from municipal corporations regarding ownership of roadside and footpath areas along national highways where buses are often parked illegally. Municipal bodies have also been advised to create authorized bus bays and stopping points to prevent traffic congestion and improve commuter safety.
The minister said the measures are aimed at strengthening road safety, regulating passenger transport operations and preventing misuse of passenger buses for unauthorized commercial activities.
