Statewide probe finds 18% of examined buses violating regulations during festival rush

During the busy festival period, Tamil Nadu's transport department carried out a comprehensive audit of private Omni buses after receiving multiple complaints of fare hikes.

From 15 October to 17 October, a total of 4,233 buses were inspected throughout the state. The investigation revealed that 778 buses failed to adhere to established transport rules, leading to the issuance of electronic penalty notices.

The audit took place at a time when the holiday season drove a sharp increase in passenger movement from Chennai to various districts, swelling the demand for seats on both government and private operators.

Guided by Transport Minister Vijay Tamilar Parthipan, regional transport officers and motor‑vehicle inspectors compiled inspection reports for each violation and initiated the e‑challan process.

The department did not provide specifics on the nature of each breach, the total fine levied, or whether passengers received refunds for any overcharged fares. However, the report highlighted that more than 18 percent of the buses examined during the three‑day period were found non‑compliant.