Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across West Bengal have initiated a stringent enforcement drive against private buses that illegally mimic state transport corporations, following complaints of female passengers being misled and harassed.
Background of the Policy
The state government introduced free travel for women on government buses starting June 1, 2026. However, several private operators have exploited this policy by painting their vehicles in the official blue-and-white color scheme and using confusing acronyms such as NBTS, MBTSG, and MMT to imitate the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC), West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC), and South Bengal State Transport Corporation (SBSTC).
Enforcement Action
On Sunday, Malda RTO Anupam Chakraborty led a surprise enforcement drive at the Gourkanya Bus Terminus. Officials stripped misleading logos, removed stickers, and painted over deceptive brand names with black ink on private buses.
Malda depot in-charge Maloy Karmakar noted that while the blue-and-white scheme is regulatory for NBSTC, private buses were deliberately causing confusion. State officials confirmed that all district RTOs have been directed to strictly ensure no private operator uses namesakes of state-run corporations.
Impact and Next Steps
The crackdown aims to protect female passengers from harassment and ensure clarity in public transport. Further drives are expected across all districts to eliminate deceptive practices.
