India, May 14 -- The state transport department has ordered strict action against private bus operators involved in arbitrary fare hikes, and illegal passenger booking apps exploiting commuters across Maharashtra. A special committee has been constituted to recommend long-term measures to regulate fare practices and curb overcharging, especially during festivals, holidays and peak travel season. The department has further directed strengthening of passenger grievance systems at bus stations, greater cleanliness at state transport depots, and free toilet facilities at all MSRTC bus stations across the state from June 1.

The decisions were taken on Tuesday at a high-level meeting chaired by transport minister Pratap Sarnaik. State transpor...