Is the K'taka Govt Cracking Down on Auto-Rickshaws for Overcharging in Bengaluru?
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Synopsis
Bengaluru's transport system faces scrutiny as the Karnataka government targets app-based and traditional auto-rickshaws for **overcharging**. With alarming fare hikes reported, Minister Ramalinga Reddy calls for urgent intervention to protect commuters. Will this crackdown effectively address fare disparities? Discover the government's bold steps in ensuring fair pricing.
Key Takeaways
- The Karnataka government is addressing fare overcharging in Bengaluru.
- Minister Ramalinga Reddy has labeled excessive fares as **daylight robbery**.
- Strict measures, including legal action, are being enforced against offending auto-rickshaws.
- Commuters have raised various complaints highlighting fare discrepancies.
- Evidence from the public is being used to substantiate claims of overcharging.
Bengaluru, June 29 (NationPress) The Karnataka government has announced a crackdown on the overcharging practices of both app-based and traditional auto-rickshaws within Bengaluru city. The directive highlights cases where ride-hailing services such as Rapido and Auto O Apps have been accused of imposing outrageously high fares, labeling it as “daylight robbery.”
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has instructed the Commissioner of Transport and Road Safety to take necessary actions. He declared, “Immediate measures must be enforced against any auto-rickshaw that charges fares exceeding the government-mandated rates in Bengaluru.”
The Minister emphasized that complaints from commuters regarding inflated fares, ride cancellations due to fare disputes, and excessive charges necessitate prompt intervention. This could lead to the revocation of permits and legal actions against the offenders.
On June 18, it was reported that the Rapido Auto app charged Rs 100.89 per kilometer, while the Auto O app demanded Rs 184.19 for a 4-km trip. Minister Reddy condemned these practices as “daylight robbery” and stated that such exploitation is intolerable.
He stressed the importance of immediate and decisive action. “Despite the Transport Department's efforts to address complaints against auto drivers who either refuse standard fares or ask for exorbitant amounts, we continue to receive numerous complaints from the public. I have included mobile screenshots submitted by citizens as proof of these overcharging incidents for further action,” added Minister Reddy.
He has ordered officials to devise a comprehensive strategy aimed at safeguarding public interests and taking stringent actions against errant auto drivers and their proprietors.
Minister Reddy also provided ten copies of the complaints as part of the directive, indicating that auto-rickshaw drivers are exploiting the current ban on bike taxi services by charging excessive fares to passengers.
Commuters have voiced multiple concerns, including ride refusals, additional fare demands, and non-metered operations, among others.
Point of View
I believe that the Karnataka government's decisive action against fare overcharging is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring fair transportation in Bengaluru. The ongoing complaints highlight the need for transparency and accountability in the auto-rickshaw sector, especially in the wake of recent regulatory changes.
NationPress
29/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions is the Karnataka government taking against overcharging auto-rickshaws?
The Karnataka government is implementing strict measures against auto-rickshaws that charge fares exceeding government-set rates, including permit cancellations and legal action.
Which apps have been cited for overcharging?
Ride-hailing services like Rapido and Auto O Apps have been specifically mentioned for charging exorbitant fares in Bengaluru.
What types of complaints have commuters raised?
Commuters have reported issues such as refusal of rides, demands for extra money, and refusal to operate using the meter.
How is the government supporting victims of fare overcharging?
The government encourages commuters to report overcharging incidents and has provided mechanisms for submitting evidence, including mobile screenshots.
What is the public's reaction to the government's crackdown?
The public has welcomed the government's actions, viewing it as a necessary step to ensure fair pricing and accountability in auto-rickshaw services.
