The reported reluctance on the part of Punjab Roadways to first enter into the city, and then if they do, to stop buses at designated stops to avoid picking up students here has emerged as a big headache for students, who are now struggling to reach college.
Most students are thus forced to board buses operated by private transporters, who refuse to honour government (PRTC-issued passes), leading to arguments and sometimes scuffles between the students and the staff.
Students are upset at the alleged harassment being caused due to lack of free or subsidized transport.
Jaspreet Singh, a student, said: "I renewed my bus pass only recently and due to the misconduct on part of the government bus drivers, we either have to pay more and are harassed."
Manpreet Singh Majithia, another student, said: "We have to wait in a queue for hours. We have raised at several forums several times to no avail."
Traffic manager of Punjab Roadways, Anil Jairath said that students needed to file a written complaint in this regard. "We have appointed an inspector, who has been tasked to ensure that each bus enters into the town and stop at designated spots. We will take action against officers, who do not follow orders."