“No Change for ₹100, Get Off the Bus”: BMTC Conductor Tells Karnataka Transport Minister During Secret Inspection

July 12, 2026

Bengaluru: Karnataka Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh experienced a real-time commuter issue during a surprise inspection of Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses when a conductor reportedly asked him to get off the bus after he offered a ₹100 note without having exact change.

The minister was travelling undercover as part of an inspection drive to understand the problems faced by daily passengers. During the journey, he reportedly travelled on multiple BMTC buses while observing passenger complaints and service-related issues.

Conductor Refuses Ticket Over Lack of Change

The incident took place when Byrathi Suresh boarded a BMTC bus and offered a ₹100 note for purchasing a ticket. According to reports, the conductor said he did not have sufficient change and asked the minister to get off the bus instead of issuing the ticket.

The situation gave the minister firsthand experience of a problem often faced by commuters who struggle when conductors are unable to provide change for larger currency notes.

Minister Conducts Undercover BMTC Inspection

During the surprise inspection, Suresh reportedly travelled wearing a mask and monitored various issues related to BMTC services. He also looked into complaints regarding bus operations and commuter convenience.

In another incident during the inspection, the minister reportedly took action after observing a bus-related issue and ordered suspension of concerned staff members.

Focus on Improving Public Transport Services

The minister said such surprise inspections would continue to identify problems faced by passengers and improve accountability within the transport system. The exercise was aimed at improving service quality and ensuring better experiences for daily commuters in Bengaluru.