Express and stage buses have once again incited dissatisfaction among consumers, this time for perpetually imposing a fare surcharge beyond its permissible period.

During the Hari Raya and balik kampung period, express and stage busses were allowed to impose a 30% fare surcharge over a duration of one month between Sept 15 and Oct 15.

Although fares increased considerably and posed a burden to travelers and commuters, they were assured by Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Noh Omar that the hike was only temporary, and would cease to be in effect at the end of the determined period.

However, now one week since the stipulated expiration date, express and stage buses continue to impose the 30 percent fare surcharge, selling consumers tickets at a hiked price.

For example, a ticket from Penang (Sg Nibong terminal) to Kuala Lumpur (Puduraya terminal) which usually costs RM27 was increased to RM35 during the Hari Raya period.

Phone calls made by a CAP officer to sales counters at the Sg Nibong terminal on the pretext of intending to purchase a bus ticket to Kuala Lumpur revealed prices still remained at RM35.

The ministry, having been swift in implementing the 30 percent fare surcharge, should follow through and be stern in ensuring bus companies comply with the ministry’s orders.

Is it clear that unscrupulous bus companies are taking advantage of the ministry’s efforts to assist them, gaining a mile for the inch given.

We urge the ministry and the Commercial Vehicles Licensing Board to investigate this matter and take immediate action to avoid unknowing consumers from being cheated.

An effective measure would be to revoke licenses of bus companies which refuse to cease the 30% fare surcharge.

The writer is president, Consumers Associatin of Penang.