A New Crisis for E-Rickshaw Drivers in Darbhanga: Vehicles Being Shut Down via 'Mobile App'; Panic Grips the City
Darbhanga: E-rickshaw drivers in Darbhanga, known as the cultural capital of Mithilanchal, are facing a strange and alarming technical crisis. E-rickshaws running on the city streets are suddenly shutting down in the middle of the road. This is not a common technical glitch; there are strong indications of a deep-rooted conspiracy and cybercrime behind it. The drivers allege that mischievous elements are remotely "locking" their vehicles using a mobile app, posing a severe threat to their livelihoods.
What is the Entire Matter?
For the past few days, e-rickshaw drivers in various parts of Darbhanga have been encountering a bizarre problem. Drivers report that while they are on their way to destinations with passengers, the vehicle's system suddenly jams, and it refuses to move.
Several experienced drivers noted, "We initially thought it was a battery issue, but when it started happening repeatedly, we realized that an unknown person has 'access' (control) over our vehicle, which they are controlling via a mobile app."
How is the Digital 'Lock' Happening?
According to e-rickshaw operators and experts, modern e-rickshaws now come with smart features and GPS-based tracking systems. Mischievous elements are misusing this technology.
Unauthorized Access: It is possible that the "PIN" or "security code" of these rickshaws' software has been hacked.
Misuse of Mobile Apps: Criminals are likely using apps capable of directly controlling the charging and control systems of e-rickshaws.
Fear of Blackmailing: Drivers allege that after their vehicles shut down, they receive calls or messages from unknown numbers, demanding money either to "fix" the vehicle or as "ransom."
Crowds of Drivers at Agencies
The issue has become so severe that dozens of drivers have been flocking to e-rickshaw showrooms and service centers in Laheriasarai and other parts of the city. Drivers complain that the battery and charging systems of their vehicles have been completely locked.
Even showroom mechanics are baffled by this situation. A showroom representative said, "The vehicles are facing a malfunction that cannot be fixed by standard hardware repair. It seems like the main 'ECU' (Electronic Control Unit) of the vehicle has been locked at the software level."
Serious Questions on Security
Traffic and cyber security experts in Darbhanga believe this incident is a warning sign of a major looming cyber-disaster.
Security of GPS: There is an urgent need to secure the GPS systems installed in e-rickshaws.
Software Updates: Companies need to update the security features of their smart e-rickshaws.
Police Complaint: Drivers have been advised to immediately file an FIR with the Cyber Cell so that the culprits can be tracked down using IP addresses and phone numbers.
The Plight of Drivers
A tearful e-rickshaw driver said, "I bought this rickshaw by taking out a loan. I earn 500-600 rupees a day, from which I pay for battery charging and the EMI. If the vehicle keeps shutting down like this, how will I feed my family? We will be completely ruined."
Role of Administration and Investigation
Following the reports, the police department has become alert. The Cyber Cell team is investigating which specific apps are being used to lock the vehicles.
The police have also written to e-rickshaw manufacturing companies, asking them to immediately investigate this security loophole.
Drivers have been advised not to let any unknown person touch the vehicle's QR code or control system in public spaces.
E-rickshaws have made urban transport easier, but these technological threats have now become a curse for the drivers. If this digital intrusion is not stopped in time, it will not only cause economic loss but also pose a challenge to law and order in the city.
