Passengers face steep price hikes as private operators cash in on festival rush; transport department admits limited control over online bookings
As millions of revellers prepare to celebrate Holi with their families, travellers in Madhya Pradesh are being hit with exorbitant bus fares that have skyrocketed up to eight times the normal rates—this despite Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav's stern warning against overcharging just a day ago.
The Holi fare surge Madhya Pradesh has left passengers stranded or forced to pay astronomical prices, with the Bhopal–Lucknow route emerging as the most expensive, showing ticket prices as high as Rs 8,899 on online booking platforms.
Fares Touch Shocking Highs on Key Routes
Data from popular booking apps reveals rampant overcharging across multiple routes originating from the state capital:
Bhopal–Lucknow: Betwanti Travels is charging Rs 8,899 against the usual Rs 1,400–1,800—a nearly 400 percent hike
Bhopal–Mumbai: Ratan Tour and Travels has listed fares at Rs 6,006, compared to the standard Rs 1,400–1,700 range
Bhopal–Satna: Tickets are touching Rs 4,500 on Red Bus app, while normal rates hover between Rs 1,000–1,200
Bhopal–Rewa: Sunil Tour and Travels is demanding up to Rs 6,000, against the regular Rs 900–1,200 fare
Private bus operators overcharging has become so brazen that even mid-distance routes like Bhopal–Jabalpur and Bhopal–Gwalior are witnessing fares three to four times higher than usual.
Why Prices Have Spiked During Festival Travel Rush
The festival travel rush has created a perfect storm for price gouging. With lakhs of migrant workers, students, and professionals attempting to return to their hometowns for Holi celebrations, demand has far outstripped supply.
"We're seeing unprecedented crowds at bus stands across the state," said a transport department official requesting anonymity. "Private operators know passengers have no choice but to pay these rates if they want to reach home for the festival."
Transport Department's Limited Authority
Bhopal RTO Jitendra Sharma acknowledged the department's constrained role in regulating fares displayed on digital platforms. "We don't directly control prices shown on online booking apps. Ticket rates are determined by individual bus operators, and apps merely reflect those charges," Sharma explained.
He advised aggrieved passengers to file formal complaints with the transport department, promising action against errant operators where jurisdiction permits.
Bus Owners Blame 'Illegal' Tourist Vehicles
Jai Kumar Jain, General Secretary of the Madhya Pradesh Bus Owners Association, offered a different perspective. He claimed that legitimate stage carriage buses aren't involved in fare irregularities.
"The real culprits are vehicles operating under All India Tourist Permits that are being illegally used as stage carriages," Jain stated. "These operators face limited regulatory oversight and are exploiting the festival season to maximize profits."
CM's Warning Falls on Deaf Ears?
Just 24 hours before the fare surge came to light, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav had issued strict directives during a video conference with Superintendents of Police and IGs across the state.
"Ensure special sensitivity during festival travel and crack down on illegal fare collection," the CM had instructed, ordering officials to maintain strict vigilance and take immediate action against overcharging.
Yet, enforcement appears to have made little impact on ground reality.
What Passengers Can Do
For those stranded or facing exorbitant fares, experts suggest:
- Document evidence of overcharging through screenshots and payment receipts
- File complaints on the transport department's portal or through the CM Helpline
- Consider alternative travel options like trains or shared private vehicles
- Report specific bus operators with vehicle numbers to local RTO offices
As Holi approaches, thousands remain hopeful that authorities will step in before the festival rush peaks further. For now, families may have to dig deep into their pockets for the priceless joy of reaching home in time for the colours.
.jpg)
