KRISHNAGIRI: Regional transport officials imposed a total fine of around Rs 25 lakh on more than 20 private omnibuses during surprise inspections in Hosur on the Chennai-Bengaluru National Highway in the early hours of Tuesday.The drive targeted omnibuses allegedly charging excessive fares and evading taxes. The buses inspected included those heading towards Bengaluru from Kerala, Puducherry and several parts of Tamil Nadu. Many buses collected exorbitant fares from passengers who were returning after the Ganesh Chaturthi holiday.Officials said complaints had mounted against private omnibus operators over exorbitant fares and non-compliance with tax requirements.Officials stopped many omnibuses, examined fare receipts, permits and tax records. Several buses lacked valid documents, while others had overcharged passengers. Officials imposed fines immediately and issued warnings.An RTO official who was part of the drive said, “We will not hesitate to seize buses and cancel permits if operators continue to exploit passengers during festival and holiday seasons. Excess fare collection and tax evasion will invite severe consequences.”
