Bengaluru: As the monsoon season descends upon Bengaluru, commuters are facing a double whammy of rain-induced travel disruptions and challenges in securing auto-rickshaw rides to reach their destinations. The scarcity of available auto-rickshaws, coupled with exorbitant fares, has left many stranded and frustrated, adding to the woes of navigating the city’s already congested streets.
Commuters recount tales of waiting for prolonged periods to hail an auto-rickshaw, only to be met with rejection or unreasonable fare demands when one finally arrives. Instances of drivers deliberately delaying ride acceptance to exploit surge pricing exacerbate the situation, leading to confrontations between drivers and passengers. Residents of Whitefield, a bustling suburb in Bengaluru, have particularly voiced concerns about the scarcity of auto-rickshaws, especially during late hours. Some drivers, registered on multiple ride-hailing platforms, cherry-pick bookings based on fare rates, disregarding customer convenience and exacerbating the scarcity issue.
Furthermore, commuters have reported instances of drivers demanding additional charges beyond the app’s displayed fare, further straining the already tense relationship between passengers and auto-rickshaw drivers.
According to traffic police data, cases of auto-rickshaw drivers refusing rides or demanding excess fares are on the rise, with over 1,000 cases recorded in the first four months of 2024 alone. Despite regulations stipulating penalties for such infractions, enforcement remains a challenge, with commuters often left to fend for themselves against errant drivers.
Traffic police officials acknowledge the difficulty in monitoring app-based bookings and enforcing penalties but assure citizens of proactive measures to address the issue. Spot fines are levied during enforcement drives against errant drivers, and citizens are encouraged to report violations with photographic evidence for swift action. In response to commuter safety concerns, traffic officers are deployed at busy auto stands and Metro stations to deter malpractice and ensure passenger safety during late hours.
