To monitor and take action against omnibus operators found guilty of levying higher fares during this festive season, special teams under RTOs have been formed, and they will conduct surprise checks in omnibuses starting Friday, according to sources.

Passengers from Coimbatore heading to their hometowns for Pongal have reportedly complained that several omnibus operators have hiked ticket prices, making their travel difficult. Previously, the ticket fare for trips from Coimbatore to Chennai ranged from Rs. 700 to Rs. 1,000, whereas it is now set between Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 3,000.

Trips from Coimbatore to Tirunelveli, which usually cost around Rs. 400 to Rs. 1,050, are now priced at Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,100. Coimbatore to Thoothukudi fares, which were Rs. 450 to Rs. 900, are now Rs. 1,100 to Rs. 2,500. Similarly, Coimbatore to Thanjavur fares, previously Rs. 400 to Rs. 600, have increased to Rs. 850 to Rs. 1,800.

Special teams under RTOs will conduct inspections starting today (10.01.2025) and continue for the next 10 days. Passengers have been urged to report omnibus fare hikes with adequate details. Omnibus operators who charge unfairly have been warned that they could face fines of Rs. 10,000, and in certain cases, they may lose their permits and have their buses impounded.

Passengers can file complaints about omnibus ticket fare hikes in Coimbatore via WhatsApp or by calling 9384808304. Complainants should provide their full name, mobile number, date of travel, destination, photo of the ticket, payment details, bus number, and operator name clearly.