The Coonoor Consumer Protection Association has written to the Transport Minister alleging that the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) was charging excess bus fares from the public in the NilgirisS. Manogaran, president of the association, said that a total of 367 buses have been issued permits in the Nilgiris. “All these buses have been granted permits under the ordinary-fare category. When bus fares were increased in 2018, an additional fare was fixed for buses travelling more than 80 km, under the name of “Express Bus Fare.” The minimum ordinary bus fare is ₹7, while the express bus fare is ₹11. In addition, as per the existing government order, a 20% additional fare has already been fixed for buses operating in hilly areas,” he said, adding that the TNSTC was collecting excess bus fares under the pretext of the buses being “Express” services.The association staged protests and also filed a Public Interest Litigation in 2019. “In its order dated 23 February 2024, the High Court stated that the Regional Transport Officer should cancel the permits of buses collecting additional fares.Of the total 367 buses, 180 are being operated as express buses. Proper fare charts have not been displayed for the information of passengers on these buses. These buses also halt in all the stops where ordinary buses stop.The Regional Transport Officer, in response to an application filed under the Right to Information Act, has stated that no express-bus permits have been issued in the Nilgiris district. The officer has also informed the court that notices were issued to buses collecting additional fares, directing that fines be imposed and their permits cancelled. A petition was submitted seeking implementation of the High Court’s order,” he said, adding that district collectors as well as Regional Transport Officers have not imposed the order.The association claims that excess charges are being collected due to the TNSTC operating at a loss in the Nilgiris. “We earnestly request that, under the new government currently in office in Tamil Nadu, this exploitation be stopped, in the hope that the welfare of the people will be protected. If appropriate action is taken in this matter, we assure you that we will withdraw the contempt of court proceedings filed in connection with this issue,” Mr. Manogaran said. Published - August 11, 2026 08:43 pm IST