The Kolhapur District Bus Operators' Association has issued a stern warning to the administration, demanding immediate action against unauthorized passenger transport. Citing the Supreme Court's directives, the association emphasized that passenger transport must adhere to legal norms. However, illegal private vehicles continue to operate unchecked, causing financial losses to licensed operators and jeopardizing passenger safety.
Association President Satishchandra Kamble stated, "Legally operating bus owners are facing recurring losses due to rampant unauthorized transport. The administration must enforce strict inspections at checkposts and curb illegal operations, or we will be forced to protest."
Despite repeated appeals to authorities, unauthorized transport remains a persistent issue. Rising fuel costs, alleged police harassment, and unchecked illegal transport have put legal operators at a severe disadvantage. The association has warned of an intensified protest if immediate action is not taken.
Against this backdrop, the association has submitted a memorandum to Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Sanjay Bhor, demanding continuous monitoring at checkposts, stringent fines for illegal transporters, and coordinated enforcement by the police and transport department.
Key office-bearers present at the meeting included Ramesh Patil, Umesh Pawar, Anand Kamble, Dinkar Gaikwad, Sanjay Mali, Sachin Patil, Subhash Jadhav, Ravindra Patil, Girish Kulkarni, Amar Kamble, Vijay Mane, Nilesh Patil, Ashok Kuchokrvi, Naik, Rahul Jadhav, Mayur Shinde, Sachin Pawar, Suresh Bhosale, and several other members.
The association has made it clear that if decisive action is not taken in the coming days, a large-scale agitation will be launched.
