Bengaluru – A special enforcement drive launched by the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) has uncovered rampant rule violations by autorickshaw drivers across the city. The crackdown, which began on June 16, was initiated shortly after the ban on bike taxis came into effect, leading to a surge in demand — and complaints — about autos.

According to MN Anucheth, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), the four-week campaign targets offences such as excess fare demands, ride refusals, and general traffic rule violations. The Transport Department is handling issues related to licence conditions, while traffic police focus on behavioural and road safety breaches.

Between June 16 and July 1, police registered 6,641 violations. The highest number — 2,894 cases — involved autos ferrying more passengers than permitted, posing safety risks, especially for schoolchildren. Officers also recorded:

  • 1,399 cases for violating uniform code

  • 80 cases for overloading schoolchildren

  • 670 refusals to accept rides

  • 676 cases of demanding excess fares

    • Other notable violations included:

    • 269 autos entering no-entry zones

  • 142 breaking one-way rules

  • 212 ignoring no-parking signs

  • 84 parked on main roads

  • Just 1 case of using a mobile phone while driving

    • Most offences were reported after sunset in crowded areas. Fines include ₹500 per offence and ₹200 for each excess passenger.

    Meanwhile, auto unions blame fare delays. D Rudramurthy, General Secretary of the Auto Rickshaw Drivers’ Union, argued:
    “If the government revises meter fares regularly, drivers won’t feel pressured to overcharge. Current revisions every 4–5 years don’t reflect rising costs.”