Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Traffic Police has launched a major enforcement drive against autorickshaw drivers accused of overcharging passengers and refusing rides, registering nearly 2,988 cases over the past three months.
The crackdown comes amid a sharp rise in complaints from commuters across the city alleging that several auto drivers were demanding inflated fares, especially during evening hours, and refusing to travel to requested destinations.
Officials said the special drive was initiated following repeated public grievances regarding violations of fare regulations and harassment faced by passengers in different parts of Bengaluru.
Over 1,300 cases for excess fare collection
According to traffic police data, authorities registered 1,354 cases against autorickshaw drivers for allegedly charging fares higher than permitted under existing transport rules.
In addition, another 1,634 cases were booked against drivers accused of refusing passengers or declining to travel to destinations requested by commuters.
Police officials stated that several complaints involved drivers demanding “one-and-a-half” fares even before the legally permitted night fare timings.
Authorities said many commuters reported being forced to either pay inflated rates or struggle to find transportation during peak evening hours.
Complaints from tourists and migrants
Officials revealed that a significant number of complaints were received from tourists, migrants and visitors from other states who were allegedly targeted because they were unfamiliar with the local language and city routes.
Several passengers claimed that some drivers either outright refused rides or demanded nearly double the standard fare for relatively short distances.
The issue has long been a source of frustration for Bengaluru residents, especially around railway stations, bus terminals, technology parks and commercial areas where demand for autorickshaws remains high.
Commuters alleged that such practices had become a regular inconvenience affecting daily travel across the city.
Drivers accused of charging night fare early
Under existing transport regulations, autorickshaw drivers are allowed to charge one-and-a-half times the regular meter fare only after 10 pm.
However, traffic police observed that several drivers had started demanding enhanced fares as early as 8 pm, violating the prescribed rules.
Officials stated that enforcement teams have intensified inspections at major traffic hubs and high-demand locations where complaints are frequently reported.
Drivers found violating fare norms are being penalised under relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Authorities warned that strict action would continue against repeat offenders and those found exploiting passengers.
Enforcement intensified across major hubs
The Bengaluru Traffic Police said special inspection drives are currently being conducted at commercial centres, bus stations, railway terminals and major technology corridors.
These areas reportedly account for a large share of complaints related to overcharging and ride refusal.
Officials said enforcement personnel are actively monitoring autorickshaw operations during peak travel hours to identify violators and respond to commuter complaints more effectively.
Police have also urged passengers to immediately report incidents of fare manipulation or refusal so that timely action can be initiated.
Honest drivers support police action
Interestingly, several autorickshaw drivers have also expressed support for the enforcement campaign, stating that the misconduct of a few drivers was tarnishing the reputation of the larger auto community.
Some drivers argued that passengers are essential for their livelihood and that unfair practices such as demanding excessive fares only damage public trust in autorickshaw services.
They maintained that strict action against errant drivers would help improve the image of honest drivers who continue to operate according to meter regulations.
Crackdown to continue
Traffic police officials confirmed that the special enforcement drive will continue in the coming weeks as part of efforts to improve commuter experience and ensure compliance with fare regulations.
Authorities said they are taking action based on public complaints and warned that stricter monitoring measures may be introduced if violations persist.
The crackdown has been welcomed by many commuters who have demanded long-term reforms and better monitoring of autorickshaw operations across Bengaluru.
Passengers have also called for stronger implementation of digital fare systems and improved grievance redressal mechanisms to prevent harassment during daily travel.