Autorickshaw drivers under fire as Bengaluru Traffic Police book over 1,000 cases

Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) launched a major enforcement drive in the city’s west division on Saturday, responding to a surge in complaints against autorickshaw drivers following the recent ban on bike taxis. Residents have reported widespread issues, including inflated fares, tampered meters, and driver refusals.

Also read: Bengaluru: Bike taxis still running despite court orders; public support grows for legalization

Targeting high-traffic zones such as Majestic, Ananda Rao Circle, KSR Railway Station, MG Road, Church Street, and Cubbon Park, the police booked over 1,000 cases in a single day, collecting fines amounting to ₹4.9 lakh. A significant portion of the action focused on autorickshaws, with 180 specific violations resulting in ₹89,700 in penalties.

Uniform-related offences topped the list, with 84 drivers penalized for not wearing the mandatory khaki attire, attracting fines of ₹42,000. Meanwhile, 52 drivers were fined for charging fares above the legal limit, and 44 were booked for refusing service to commuters, drawing penalties of ₹21,600.

Authorities noted a spike in misconduct coinciding with the increased reliance on autorickshaws after the withdrawal of bike taxi services. The crackdown was aimed at preventing drivers from exploiting the situation.

To effectively monitor violations, BTP deployed officers in plainclothes who posed as commuters. Several instances of overcharging were reported, including fares nearly double the normal rate on short routes.

The operation underscores the police’s intent to restore commuter confidence and ensure fair practices among public transport operators.