Why are Bengaluru auto drivers being fined? Over 1,000 penalised in a day, here’s what they did wrong

Soon after the ban on bike taxis in Bengaluru, many residents have complained of rising problems with autorickshaw drivers. People say some drivers are overcharging, using faulty meters, or refusing to take passengers.

Acting on these complaints, Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP) carried out a major crackdown on Saturday and booked over 1,000 cases in the city’s west division, collecting Rs 4.9 lakh in fines. The drive mainly focused on busy areas like Majestic, Ananda Rao Circle, KSR Railway Station, MG Road, Church Street, and Cubbon Park.

Overcharging and uniform violations top the list

During the day-long drive, 180 cases were booked specifically for autorickshaw violations, collecting Rs 89,700 in fines. The highest number, 84 cases, were against drivers not wearing their khaki uniform, resulting in Rs 42,000 in fines. Another 52 drivers were fined for demanding excess fare, while 44 were booked for refusing to take passengers, each offence drawing a Rs 21,600 penalty.

Police say demand is being misused

Anitha B Haddannavar, DCP (Traffic) West, told TOI that autorickshaw complaints have increased, especially after bike taxis were banned. “Some drivers are clearly taking advantage of the higher demand. That’s why we targeted busy areas with high footfall,” she said.

Plainclothes officers catch rule breakers

Police officers also rode in plainclothes to catch drivers red-handed. One officer shared that a ride from Majestic Metro Station to Freedom Park, which usually costs around Rs 50, was being charged at Rs 75 to 100 on Saturday.

Parking and meter issues

Aside from auto-related violations, 216 cases of illegal parking were also booked, with a fine of Rs 87,500 collected. A senior officer pointed out that the authenticity of meters in many autos should also be checked by the RTO.

The drive has sparked calls for stricter rules and better systems to protect commuters from unfair practices.

Inputs from TOI