KOCHI: The bus owners have decided to do away with freebies as many are taking advantage of of them. Some people feign as cops and refuse to buy tickets.According to the bus owners, these cheaters contribute to their accumulated loss. “We find it difficult to run the services. We are already suffering from the ever increasing cost of fuel and spare parts. Adding to our loss, the number of those travelling free of cost is increasing by the day. We can’t afford it. So we have decided to put an end to the practice of allowing freebies,” said M B Sathyan, secretary, Private Bus Operators Association.Now, many, including those working with various security agencies in the city, go on free rides in private buses. Those who sport the hairstyle of cops would blink at the conductor when he approaches them for tickets, said sources. Another group comprise former employees of private buses. Many persons avail themselves of concessions under the cover of former workers of private buses. We have discussed the issue at length and have decided to stop the practice,” Sathyan said.The bus owners have decided to demand ID cards from those demanding a free journey. Anybody who fails to produce ID cards will have to pay for the tickets,” Sathyan said.The bus owners have decided to send a letter to the police authorities informing them that the ID cards would be made mandatory for availing themselves of free rides. But the police officials said that as of now cops are not enjoying free rides in private buses. “Maybe, there were cops who enjoyed free rides in private buses in the past,” said M R Ajith Kumar, City Police Commissioner. “There is no legality in availing oneself of a free ride. It is up to the bus owners to make a decision in this regard. They can’t offer or stop the facility according to their will,” he said.
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