Bengaluru: In a major crackdown against autorickshaw drivers charging exorbitant fares, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) on Monday launched a special city-wide drive, seizing over 150 autos for overcharging, operating without valid permits or insurance, and other violations.
The operation comes in response to rising public complaints that auto drivers — particularly after the bike taxi ban — have been overcharging passengers, often demanding ₹100 for short distances of just 1-2 km, either directly or via aggregator apps.
“Teams were formed across Bengaluru, with two special squads per RTO office. The crackdown began at 8 am, and so far, over 100 autos have been seized for violations like fare overcharging, lack of insurance, or operating without a valid AFC permit,” said a senior transport department official.
According to RTO data, more than 250 complaints have been filed against auto drivers. Violators have been fined and legal action has been initiated. The department also found that aggregator apps were charging ₹50–60 for a one-kilometre ride — against the state-mandated minimum fare of ₹30 — with some drivers demanding ₹100 outright.
Passengers also voiced frustration. “If you book through the app, it shows ₹50. But if you ask directly, they charge ₹100,” said a commuter. “We’re from middle-class families. How can we afford this every day?”
As per Supreme Court guidelines, aggregators are allowed to charge 5% service fee plus applicable GST. However, many companies reportedly flouted this norm, levying excessive ‘traffic congestion charges’.
Transport officials confirmed that aggregator platforms too would face scrutiny. “We are initiating legal action against those collecting inflated charges beyond the permissible limits under the court’s guidelines,” the official added.
While Monday’s operation sent a strong message, RTO sources acknowledged that periodic, not one-off, enforcement is key to long-term compliance.
