Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation, BMTC, has intensified ticket inspection drives across buses operating in and around Bengaluru city, leading to action against thousands of violators in January 2026.
According to official data released by the corporation, checking staff inspected 18,466 bus trips during the month. As part of the enforcement drive, 2,637 passengers were penalised for ticketless travel, resulting in a fine collection of Rs 5,85,650.
In addition to passenger violations, BMTC also booked 1,679 cases against conductors for dereliction of duty during the same period, signalling stricter internal accountability measures within the public transport system.
Action Against Misuse of Reserved Seats
The enforcement drive also targeted violations related to reserved seating for women. During January 2026, 242 male passengers were penalised for occupying seats exclusively reserved for female passengers. A fine of Rs 24,200 was imposed under Rule 94 read with Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 and relevant Karnataka Motor Vehicle Rules.
BMTC officials reiterated that such checks are conducted to ensure passenger discipline and safeguard the rights of women commuters.
Total Penalties Collected in January
In total, 2,879 passengers were penalised in January 2026, and a cumulative penalty amount of Rs 6,09,850 was collected by the corporation.
The transport body has advised commuters to purchase valid tickets, including daily, weekly, or monthly passes, while travelling in BMTC buses. Officials stated that compliance will help passengers avoid penalties and embarrassment, while also enabling BMTC to enhance service quality for the public.
The corporation has also appealed to passengers to respect designated seating norms and allow women to occupy seats reserved exclusively for them.
