Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (EP) 

Bengaluru, Sep 18: The increase in traffic fines has shocked vehicle drivers. It is learnt that people driving in bikes and cars are leaving their vehicles back and travelling in BMTC buses these days. 

BMTC, which was incurring losses due to lack of passengers, has increased its collections. The recently hiked traffic fines have brought substantial income for BMTC buses. The number of passengers in BMTC buses has been increasing for the last fifteen days. There has been an increase in income of Rs 3.41 crore during the last fifteen days alone.

Vehicle drivers have been rushing to RTO for driving licences, renewal of insurance, transfer of ownership and emission test certificates since the traffic fines were increased. They are afraid to drive even if one of the documents is missing. 

Around 35 lac to 40 lac passengers were travelling in BMTC buses daily. Additional 2.5 lac passengers have taken the buses per day since September 1st. Fine has to be paid even for old violations. Police are slapping fines for one reason or the other, it is gathered. People have decided that it is better to travel by BMTC buses instead of pleading with police on the road. 

Passengers travelling by BMTC buses had decreased after Metro train was put into service. But it is earning profit now due to heavy fines imposed by the union government. Traffic congestion also is likely to ease after the developments.