Students allege overcharging, overloading, and seek strict action from ARTO
Bandipora, May 5: Commuters across Bandipora are expressing strong resentment against passenger auto, ‘Majic’ and Sumo drivers for allegedly increasing fares on their own, beyond the officially revised rates.
The issue has been widely reported on key routes including Khayar, Lawaypora, Sonerwani, C.A. Khan, as well as Vewan, Aloosa, Sumlar, Kudara and Sirender, where passengers say fare violations and overloading have become routine.
Following a recent fare revision of around 18%, commuters claim that drivers have gone a step further by adding arbitrary amounts. “If the fare on a route was increased by ₹5, they are charging ₹8 or more,” several passengers told this reporter.
Students, who rely heavily on these routes for daily travel, said they are the worst affected. “They are looting us. Along with overcharging, they are boarding 9 to 10 passengers in vehicles meant for only 7 as per guidelines,” a group of students alleged.
Passengers have urged the authorities to make the official rate list public and ensure strict implementation to prevent exploitation. They also called for regular checks on passenger capacity violations, especially in Sumo and ‘Majic’ vehicles.
Responding to the concerns, ARTO Bandipora Mukhtar Ahmad said that he will summon the presidents of all concerned transport stands to his office and direct them to strictly follow the prescribed fare structure.
Commuters are now hoping for swift action to bring relief and restore fair practices in public transport across Bandipora. (KNS)
