Passengers in parts of Tamil Nadu have alleged that private bus operators have increased ticket fares on their own, soon after the launch of the ‘Vetri Payanam’ scheme.
The state government rolled out the women’s free travel programme for suburban buses under the ‘Vetri Payanam’ banner, inaugurated by Chief Minister Vijay on October 2. While private and mini-bus owners had initially opposed the move, they later withdrew protests and legal steps, reportedly to avoid confrontation with the government.
In the days following the launch, commuters in several areas claimed that private buses had raised ticket prices by Rs 2 to Rs 5 without any prior announcement.
Passengers said the hike was being justified as a way to offset reduced revenue. In Thanjavur district, they pointed to a fare increase on the Pattukkottai–Thanjavur Old Bus Stand route, where the ticket reportedly went up from Rs 31 to Rs 35.
The allegations have triggered concern among regular commuters, who are seeking clarity on fare revisions by private operators.
