KRISHNAGIRI: Regional transport officials imposed penalties totalling nearly Rs 25 lakh on more than 20 omni buses during surprise inspections on the national highway in Hosur from 2am until dawn on Tuesday.The drive targeted omni buses allegedly charging excessive fares and evading statutory taxes. The services were travelling towards Bengaluru from Kerala, Puducherry and several Tamil Nadu districts.Officials said complaints had mounted against private omni bus operators over exorbitant fares and non-compliance with tax requirements. A team led by Vellore Joint Commissioner of Transport Suresh and Hosur RTO Duraisamy conducted the inspections.Officials stopped every omni bus passing through the highway and examined fare receipts, permits and tax records. Several buses lacked valid documents, while others had overcharged passengers. Officials imposed fines immediately and issued warnings.An RTO official who was part of the drive, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “We will not hesitate to seize buses or cancel permits if operators continue to exploit passengers during festive or holiday seasons. Excess fare collection and tax evasion will invite severe consequences.”
