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Bengaluru Auto Crackdown: Over 6,600 Violations Booked in 2 Weeks | Major Traffic Drive Begins

Bengaluru auto crackdown is making headlines as traffic authorities book more than 6,600 violations in just two weeks. The large-scale enforcement, which began on June 16, targets rampant rule-breaking by autorickshaw drivers across the city, including overcharging, trip refusals, and more.

🚨 Why This Crackdown Now?

Following the controversial ban on bike taxis, complaints against autorickshaw drivers surged dramatically. With fewer alternatives, commuters became easy targets for exploitative pricing and non-compliance. In response, the Bengaluru Traffic Police and Transport Department launched a city-wide drive to clamp down on violators.

📊 Over 6,600 Cases in 2 Weeks: Here’s What They Found

In a shocking revelation, authorities confirmed that 6,641 violations were recorded between June 16 and June 30. These included:

📌 Carrying extra passengers: 2,894 cases
📌 No uniform: 1,399 drivers fined ₹500 each
📌 Overcrowding children: 80 cases
📌 Trip refusals: 670 cases
📌 Demanding excess fare: 676 cases
📌 Wrong-side driving, illegal parking: ~623 violations
📌 Using mobile while driving: 1 case

According to the Economic Times, the fines collected in a single zone on the first day amounted to over ₹21,600.

🛑 Overcharging: The Prime Offense

Instances of autos demanding ₹100 or more for a ₹50 ride became frequent after the bike taxi ban. Even app-based rickshaws were found violating fare norms, with one ride costing a passenger ₹184 for just 4 kilometers.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy slammed these practices, calling them “daylight robbery” and warned that auto permits would be cancelled if violations continued.

👮‍♀️ Special Enforcement Task Force

The Bengaluru auto crackdown deployed both uniformed and plainclothes officers across all traffic zones. This initiative helped catch rule-breaking drivers in the act and send a clear signal that lawlessness won’t be tolerated anymore.

🚗 What Should Commuters Do?

Here’s how you can ensure safe and fair travel:

✅ Insist on meter fare
✅ Prefer autos with drivers in khaki uniform
✅ Avoid autos parked at random hotspots without permits
✅ Report violations to 080-22868444 / 080-22868550

Authorities are urging residents to actively report any illegal fare demands or rude behavior. You can also submit complaints via WhatsApp and mobile apps supported by the transport department.

📈 What This Means for Bengaluru’s Transport Future

This crackdown is more than just a policing act—it is a push toward restoring faith in public transport. As the city balances the future of shared mobility, the outcome of this operation may set a precedent for urban centers across India.

🚦 Auto Unions Respond

Auto unions, while accepting that a few drivers may violate rules, claim that the fare system is outdated. They argue that the current meter rate of ₹30 for the first 1.9 km and ₹15/km afterward doesn’t reflect inflation and fuel costs. They’re lobbying for a revised fare structure and policy clarity for both traditional and app-based services.

🌍 Bengaluru Not Alone

Many Indian cities including Mumbai and Delhi face similar issues with auto and taxi fare compliance. The Bengaluru model could inspire stricter enforcement in other metro areas if successful.

📣 Citizens React: Relief or Temporary Show?

While many Bengalureans have applauded the authorities for taking strong action, some remain skeptical. Commuters on social media are sharing both praise and concerns—some note improved behavior from drivers, while others fear that the crackdown may fizzle out without sustained follow-up. Local resident Priya Ramesh shared, “For the first time in months, my auto driver didn’t ask for an extra ₹50. I hope this continues.” However, citizen groups have urged the government to install real-time fare monitoring and introduce grievance redressal systems to make the change permanent.

🧭 The Road Ahead

As the Bengaluru auto crackdown enters its third week, commuters are hoping for long-term impact, not just a temporary fix. Authorities are continuing surprise checks, while the Transport Department reviews fare slabs and operational permits.

Until then, commuters are advised to stay alert, demand transparency, and utilize official helplines to keep the city moving lawfully and safely.