Safety Advice Bike Taxi Riders Face Auto Driver Attacks; Safety Advice and Crackdown

Bengaluru’s bike taxi riders are increasingly targeted by auto drivers who view them as competition. Reports indicate frequent attacks on these riders, who are often left feeling unsafe while picking up passengers in areas frequented by auto drivers.

In response to the rising violence, Kishore, a bike taxi driver, has shared advice on protecting oneself. Speaking to the YouTube channel News First Prime, Kishore recommended that bike taxi riders carry pepper spray for self-defence. “The attacks on two-wheeler taxi riders are escalating, and it’s crucial to have a means of self-protection. I advise using strong pepper spray against miscreants, and riders should keep it handy,” he said.

Kishore clarified that using pepper spray for self-defence is legal, but it must be used only in emergencies. “It’s important to understand that while pepper spray can be used for self-defence, it should not be deployed randomly. It’s a tool for protecting oneself during critical situations. You can purchase it online,” he added.

The issue has been exacerbated by ongoing demands from auto-rickshaw unions to ban bike taxis, which have been a contentious topic for some time. While a complete ban on bike taxis isn’t legally feasible, the Karnataka transport department has taken steps to address the problem by targeting unauthorised bike taxis. All Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) have been instructed to form special teams to crack down on illegally operating bike taxis.

Earlier this year, the Karnataka High Court had directed the state government to ensure the safety of bike taxi drivers following a series of attacks. The court’s order highlighted the need for protection for those dependent on bike taxis for their livelihood.

Despite these legal measures, tensions remain high, with cab aggregators like Uber, Ola, and Rapido continuing to operate bike taxis in the city. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle between traditional auto drivers and modern bike taxi services in Bengaluru.