BENGALURU: As BMTC’s revenue suffers a hit in the aftermath of demonetisation, bus conductors seem to be cashing in. BMTC officials told Express that they have received at least 12 complaints against conductors for allegedly selling change for a higher cost. BMTC has issued a warning to its staff against indulging in such practices, promising stringent action if charges are proved.
To rein in unscrupulous members, conductors have been asked to write denominations of the notes received compulsorily while remitting the day’s collection.
“We have also asked line checking staff to intensify checks. Public can also lodge a complaint if any conductor is engaged in selling change for higher cost. We have not taken any action against any conductors so far,” said a BMTC official.
“We have asked the checking staff to check denominations of notes written by conductors”, he added.
Sources say there is an unprecedented demand for change and many people were approaching BMTC conductors offering commission.
Meanwhile, several conductors complain that some commuters are even giving newly-issued `2,000 notes. “It’s difficult to return change for a `2,000 note. We are also not receiving enough change from BMTC,” said a conductor in a Vayu Vajra bus.
Many commuters say ‘change’ problems in BMTC buses have turned from bad to worse.
In June this year, BMTC unveiled a smart card to allow commuters contact-less ticket transactions from September . When contacted, a senior BMTC official said the smart card project was delayed because of various reasons. “We are now planning to launch the smart card by February, the official”said.
The BMTC official said revenue from daily passes and monthly passes has reduced after the demonetisation.