Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has acknowledged a spike in complaints against autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru, following the government’s recent clampdown on bike taxi services. With the app-based two-wheeler taxis now off the roads, autorickshaw drivers appear to be capitalising on the void by overcharging passengers, particularly on short-distance routes.
The state transport department confirmed that grievances have surged since the enforcement action against unauthorised bike taxis began. To tackle the issue, regional transport offices (RTOs) and enforcement squads have been instructed to ramp up inspections at key transit points, including metro stations, bus terminals, and traffic-heavy junctions. Drivers found violating fare norms will be penalised.
Notably, Minister Reddy also noted that although the crackdown was essential for enforcing transport laws, it has inadvertently created a vacuum in affordable commuting options, one that some auto drivers are now exploiting.
Auto drivers bypassing official rates, demanding arbitrary fares
In a circular dated June 28, the department cited mounting evidence of autorickshaw drivers bypassing fare meters and demanding arbitrary sums. A recent enforcement drive unearthed a telling example where a commuter was billed Rs 100.89 for a journey of just 1.3 km, more than twice the regulated meter fare of Rs 48.49. Officials revealed that similar incidents have been reported across multiple areas of the city.
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Meanwhile, authorities are urging commuters to log complaints through the Seva Sindhu portal or the official grievance redressal system.
Minister Reddy has also called on the public to resist paying inflated fares and insist on metered journeys or proper fare receipts. He stressed that while the government is committed to maintaining an orderly and lawful transport system, exploitation by autorickshaw drivers would not be tolerated.