Passengers forced to buy lemon candies with ‘Nathjal’ at bus stand

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

After complaints of overpricing, a new malpractice has surfaced at the central bus stand where passengers are being forced to buy Rs 5 lemon candy packets along with ‘Nathjal’ water bottles. The one-litre bottle, officially priced at Rs 15, is effectively being sold for Rs 20 in the scorching heat.

Commuters, especially from rural areas, have expressed strong resentment. “We only need water, but are forced to take candies,” passengers said. Vendors reportedly justify the practice by claiming they do not have Rs 5 change.

The ‘Nathjal’ initiative was introduced by the state transport corporation to provide affordable drinking water to ST passengers and create a revenue source. However, the current practice has raised concerns among travellers.

Divisional transport officer Santosh Ghane said, “The matter will be verified, and strict action will be taken against those found guilty.” Authorities have urged passengers to report such incidents to the station manager for prompt action.