Hyderabad: Telangana RTC charged express fares on ordinary bus services during sarpanch elections from the Narayanpet depot, triggering sharp criticism from male passengers who travelled on polling day.
Passengers said the depot operated only ordinary buses to nearby villages during the elections. However, staff collected express fares, increasing travel costs during a high-demand period. Many commuters said the move placed an unexpected financial burden on them.
Several passengers questioned why RTC officials charged higher fares when only ordinary services were available. They said the decision contradicted election-time assurances, when ruling party supporters highlighted free bus travel as a key welfare measure.
Travellers also expressed anger that the charges were imposed on the election day itself. They said the practice appeared to exploit passenger rush rather than address public need.
RTC express fares defended by Narayanpet depot manager
Responding to complaints, the Narayanpet RTC depot manager said officials took the decision due to heavy passenger congestion during the sarpanch elections. He said the measure aimed to manage operations amid unusually high demand.
Passengers rejected the explanation and asked whose interests the decision served. They said charging express fares on ordinary buses lacked transparency and accountability.
Several commuters described the incident as embarrassing, especially as it occurred in the Chief Minister’s own district. They urged opposition parties and transport authorities to question the fare collection and prevent similar practices in the future.
