Private bus crew warned of action in Kozhikode if they harass students for travelling on fare concession

The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) and the police have intensified inspections at bus stands across the district to check if private bus crew behave rudely with students for traveling on fare concession.

The complaints cell attached with the city traffic police receive complaints from students almost every week regarding the harassment they face from the crew while boarding buses. "Whenever we receive a complaint, we verify it first and take action if found true. In a few such incidents reported of late, the bus conductors were also made attend the road safety class at Edappal," said an officer attached to the cell.

"The squads are conducting regular inspections at bus stands in the district to check if students are being forced to wait outside the bus until the bus is about to start the journey or until all the full-fare passengers have occupied seats in the vehicle. Complaints can be registered via call or WhatsApp on ' 8281786094'. The bus number, time of incident and location should be clearly mentioned to ensure appropriate action," said RTO Enforcement P M Shabeer.

The officer said that if the complaints were found true, action including the suspension of the licence of conductor and if required, also that of the driver, would be recommended.

"Traffic police personnel and home guards are deployed at all bus stands and other important boarding points to ensure constant monitoring and prevent such incidents," said Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic North) Raju P K.

During the Students Travel Facility Committee meeting held here last month, District Collector S Sambasiva Rao had warned private bus operators and bus crew of strict action if they behave rudely towards students for travelling on fare concession.