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Travel
Private Bus Operators Double Fares Amid Diwali Travel Surge in Himachal Pradesh
✍️ The Chenab Times
🗓 08 Nov 2026, 08:27 AM
👁 23
During the Diwali holiday rush, private bus operators in Himachal Pradesh have been charging passengers up to twice the usual fare, prompting complaints from commuters and calls for regulatory action.
The festive season has triggered a massive movement of people across Himachal Pradesh, with thousands of passengers relying on private buses to reach their hometowns for Diwali celebrations.
Private operators, which supplement the state-run transport services, have been reported to charge fares that are up to double the standard rates advertised for the same routes.
Commuters boarding these buses have lodged complaints with consumer forums, stating that the sudden price hike makes short-distance travel unaffordable during the peak period.
The Himachal Pradesh Transport Department has reiterated that it monitors fare structures for state‑run services, but private operators are not bound by the same schedule, prompting officials to consider surprise inspections and stricter licensing checks.
Authorities have urged passengers to report overcharging and have promised to take action against operators found violating fare guidelines.
Private operators, which supplement the state-run transport services, have been reported to charge fares that are up to double the standard rates advertised for the same routes.
Commuters boarding these buses have lodged complaints with consumer forums, stating that the sudden price hike makes short-distance travel unaffordable during the peak period.
The Himachal Pradesh Transport Department has reiterated that it monitors fare structures for state‑run services, but private operators are not bound by the same schedule, prompting officials to consider surprise inspections and stricter licensing checks.
Authorities have urged passengers to report overcharging and have promised to take action against operators found violating fare guidelines.