Pune RTO fines private bus operators Rs 7.04 lakh for overcharging during Diwali rush

Pune, November 7, 2026: The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has begun action against private bus operators who charged passengers more than the government-fixed fares in the Diwali holiday rush. A total of 21 private travel operators have been penalised for overcharging, with fines amounting to Rs 7.04 lakh.

The action is part of a special inspection drive that began on November 1. The Pune RTO took up the drive after complaints that private bus operators were taking advantage of the rise in travel demand during the Diwali holidays to charge exorbitant fares.

During the festival season, the number of passengers travelling from Pune to Marathwada, Vidarbha, Khandesh and western Maharashtra rises sharply. It is alleged that some private bus operators arbitrarily raise ticket prices to exploit the crowds, hitting passengers financially.

Officials said 309 private passenger vehicles have been inspected so far in the drive that began on November 1. Of these, 65 were found violating various traffic rules. Action was taken against 14 vehicles for charging more than the prescribed limit, and fines totalling Rs 7.04 lakh were recovered.

Earlier, in September and October 2026, the RTO inspected 929 private passenger vehicles, of which 315 were found breaking rules. In that period, action was taken against seven vehicles for overcharging passengers, and fines totalling Rs 25.82 lakh were imposed for various violations.

Taken together, violations were found in 65 of 309 vehicles inspected since November 1, and in 315 of 929 vehicles in September and October. The RTO said the inspection drive is still continuing.

The RTO has appealed to passengers to report private bus operators who charge beyond the limit set by the government. Complaints can be sent to the WhatsApp number 8275330101, along with the passenger's name, mobile number and a photograph of the ticket as proof.

Swapnil Bhosale, Deputy Regional Transport Officer, has directed private bus owners and drivers to keep vehicle documents valid, to charge fares only within the prescribed limit, and to cooperate with the inspection drive.