HARIPUR, Jan 6: Overloading in passenger buses plying on different routes and the condition of roads have become a permanent source of trouble for the commuters here.

The drivers often forced more passengers into the buses and many more were forced to sit on the roof of the bus as no other means of public transport were available. This trend had also resulted in many casualties in the past.

It was also witnessed that women were the worst-affected and exposed to more bothersome travel conditions on dilapidated roads. "We, especially working women, are left with little option but to travel in buses with passengers huddled next to each other inside, and hanging from the doors and ladders on the outside," said a lady schoolteacher.

She was of the view that the women suffered even more owing to unruly attitude of drivers and male passengers, as well as poor condition of buses and roads. She also complained of overcharging. A lot of other passengers seemed to be least bothered how they travel and board the buses if they find a foothold thereon.

Likewise, the drivers and transporters also don't care whether somebody is sitting crouched or dangling from the bus in a dangerous manner. Traffic sources said that at least 30 buses plied on Khanpur Road, while more than 38 ran on Hattar Road.