In a major enforcement drive against autorickshaw drivers accused of harassing commuters, the Bengaluru Traffic Police has registered nearly 2,988 cases over the past three months for overcharging passengers
and refusing rides to requested destinations.
The action follows a surge in complaints from commuters across Bengaluru alleging that several auto drivers were demanding inflated fares, particularly during evening hours, and refusing to operate according to meter rates.
Officials said special drives were launched after repeated complaints about drivers charging ‘one-and-a-half’ fares well before the legally permitted night-time period, as reported in The Hans.
More Than 1,300 Cases Filed For Excess Fare Demands
According to traffic police data, authorities registered 1,354 cases against auto drivers for charging fares higher than permitted. Another 1,634 cases were booked against drivers accused of refusing passengers or declining to travel to requested destinations.
Police officials said many complaints came from people who claimed they were specifically targeted because they were unfamiliar with the local language, including tourists, migrants and visitors from other states.
In several instances, commuters alleged that drivers either refused service outright or demanded nearly double the normal fare.
Drivers Accused Of Charging Night Fare Before 10 pm
Under existing transport regulations, autorickshaw drivers are allowed to charge one-and-half times the meter fare only after 10 pm. However, officials observed that several drivers had begun demanding higher fares from as early as 8 pm, sparking frustration among commuters and triggering widespread criticism.
Authorities said enforcement teams have now intensified inspections across commercial hubs, railway stations, bus terminals and major technology corridors where complaints are reported more frequently.
Drivers found violating fare rules are being penalised under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Passengers have welcomed the crackdown and called for stronger monitoring of autorickshaw operations across the city. A commuter expressed frustration over the conduct of some drivers, saying such practices had become a daily inconvenience for ordinary residents.
Honest Drivers Back Police Action
Several autorickshaw drivers have also extended support to the enforcement drive, arguing that a small group of offenders was damaging the reputation of the larger auto community.
An auto driver said that passengers are the livelihood of drivers and stressed that demanding excessive fares or troubling commuters is unfair. He added that irresponsible behaviour by a few drivers is giving the entire autorickshaw community a negative image.
Special Enforcement Drive To Continue
Traffic police officials said strict action is being taken based on public complaints and warned that the special crackdown against errant auto drivers will continue in the coming weeks. Authorities have also urged commuters to immediately report cases of overcharging or ride refusal so that action can be initiated promptly against violators.
