Dhaka, March 18 -- The Bangladesh Passengers' Welfare Association has alleged widespread overcharging on buses and minibuses during the Eid travel rush, contradicting the road transport minister's assertion that operators are adhering to government-fixed fares.

The association said fares have been increased on 87 percent of buses and minibuses this season, with intercity travellers alone paying an estimated Tk 1.218 billion in excess.

The group warned that the scale of irregularities could surpass records seen over the past two decades.

Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam, however, dismissed such claims during a visit to the Gabtoli Bus Terminal on Wednesday.

"Operators are charging the fixed fare. In some cases, fa...