Karnataka transport minister R Ramalinga Reddy on June 28 directed the transport department to take strict action against app-based auto rickshaws charging fares beyond government-prescribed rates in Bengaluru.
"In cases where passengers report being overcharged, rides are cancelled if higher fares are refused, or instances of exorbitant fare collection occur, immediate action must be initiated. The permits of such autos should be cancelled, and criminal cases must be registered against the violators." said Reddy.
Since the ban on bike taxis on June 16, there has been a sharp rise in complaints of auto rickshaw drivers demanding exorbitant fares from passengers in Bengaluru.
Moneycontrol had earlier reported on June 15 in a story titled 'Driver fee, platform fee, congestion fee: Bengaluru ride-hailing users hit hard by add-on charges'.
Also, read: Driver fee, pickup fee, congestion fee: Bengaluru ride-hailing users hit hard by add-on charges
"Strict action must be taken against app-based autos and any other auto rickshaws charging fares beyond government-fixed rates in Bengaluru," Reddy said.
He added that although the transport department has taken action in some cases against drivers violating fare norms, complaints continue to pour in. "Mobile screenshots submitted by the public highlighting overcharging have been attached with this letter for necessary follow-up," the minister stated.
Reddy also directed the department to immediately prepare an effective action plan to protect public interest and take stern action against auto drivers or owners found flouting fare regulations.
Meanwhile, #StepDownTransportMinister was trending on social media platforms over the bike taxi ban.
Also, read: A week after bike taxi ban, Bengaluru sees spike in traffic jams, costlier auto rides & angry gig workers
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