MTC’s one-day pass to be suspended for a few months

In another announcement the department said that there would be no change in the rate of the monthly pass, which will be maintained at the same Rs 1000. The issuance of the one-day pass, also known as ‘travel as you please’ tickets, was stopped after the recent bus fare revision. 

According to officials, the department has revised the rate monthly concession pass (up to 10 km) to Rs 320 against the old rate of Rs 240. Similarly, the monthly concession pass (up to15 km) will be sold at Rs 370 instead of the previous rate of Rs 280. While there were strong expectations that the one-day pass will be continued to be issued with a hike of Rs 30, that is from Rs 50 to Rs 80, the department’s decision to suspend its issuance has upset the commuters. 

“I used to buy one-day pass, at least thrice a week, and the government’s decision to stop issuing the pass will affect commuters in a big way. Since the government has not revised the fares of express and deluxe buses, the transport department should at least consider giving out the one-day pass soon,” said a commuter. 

When contacted, PWC Davidar, Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) said, “We have been receiving reports of misuse of one-day pass. So, we are in the process of initiating measures to contain such malpractice. We will resume issuing daily pass in a few months.” 

Meanwhile, state Transport Minister MR Vijayabhaskar on Tuesday said that the government was taking steps to procure new buses. Addressing the media, the minister also admitted that the patronage for government buses has taken a dip. “We are planning to buy new buses to regain the lost patronage,” he added.