TTC to Enforce Fare Inspections on Bus Riders Starting This Week

By Ghazal Fatima

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is taking another step to combat fare evasion by introducing random fare inspections for bus riders. Starting this week, customers taking the bus may be asked to show proof of payment before entering subway stations. This move expands the TTC’s crackdown on fare evasion to all modes of transit, as inspections are already taking place at subway stations and on streetcars.

TTC spokesperson Stuart Green said this initiative is necessary to address the $140 million lost annually to fare evasion. He emphasized that while the TTC receives funding from the city, a large portion of its operations depends on fare revenue. “We really have to get serious about fare inspection, make sure everyone is paying their fare,” Green said in an interview with CBC at Keele Station. He also mentioned that the first two weeks would focus on educating riders rather than issuing fines. However, after the grace period, those caught without valid proof of payment could face fines ranging from $235 to $425, depending on the violation.

Students who regularly use the TTC have mixed reactions to this new enforcement. A Business student at York university, Brian Edward, hopes the inspectors will show some compassion. “I understand that the TTC needs funding to improve service, but I feel like this might make some students anxious. Sometimes, we forget to tap our Presto cards, especially when we’re in a rush. I hope they are fair in how they enforce it,” he said. On the other hand, arts student Ahmed Mirza believes this initiative is necessary. “I see people skipping fares all the time. It’s frustrating because it affects the rest of us who pay. I think it’s fair that everyone contributes so that the TTC can improve its services,” he said.

To ensure fairness, all fare inspectors will be in uniform and equipped with body-worn cameras to record interactions with riders. Green reassured riders that inspectors would use their discretion when issuing tickets, considering circumstances where a rider may have made an honest mistake. TTC CEO Greg Percy also emphasized the importance of paying fares, in a news release he said, “Our preference is that all customers pay for their rides rather than issuing tickets. We must let those who intentionally cheat the system know we’re serious.” He added that fare evasion significantly impacts the TTC’s ability to maintain and improve services, and recovering lost revenue is essential for keeping fares affordable.

This is the third major initiative in recent months to reduce fare evasion. In December, the TTC introduced plainclothes fare inspectors, and earlier this year, it started phasing out ‘no-tap’ fare gates at subway stations. The TTC also announced plans to hire 55 new fare inspectors to assist with enforcement. As the TTC moves forward with these inspections, it remains to be seen how riders will adapt. For now, transit users are advised to always carry proof of payment to avoid potential fines.