Surat's public transport system, the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), took swift action to remove gambling advertisements displayed on their buses after a complaint from a concerned citizen.

Acharya Avinash Patil, principal of Suman School, spotted the inappropriate advertisement while travelling on a red BRTS bus on Godadara Middle Ring Road. The ad, promoting online gambling with a photo of playing cards and a message about becoming a billionaire, raised concerns for its potential influence on students and young people.

Taking immediate action, Acharya Patil contacted Somnath Marathe, Chairman of the Surat Municipal Corporation's Transport Committee. Highlighting the potential negative impact on students, he emphasized the importance of discouraging gambling habits.

Responding promptly, Chairman Marathe reached out to the operator responsible for BRTS buses. While the contract allows operator to display advertisements, they readily agreed to remove the offending gambling ads.

This incident exemplifies the power of active citizenship and the responsive approach of the Surat Municipal Corporation. It demonstrates the administration's commitment to maintaining a positive environment within the city's public transport system and its intolerance for misleading or harmful messages.