Crackdown on Overcharging: Special Drive Against Auto and E-Rickshaw Drivers Begins in Patna
Patna, Jagran Correspondent: Taking serious note of the growing number of complaints regarding auto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw drivers charging passengers arbitrary and excessive fares, the Transport Department has decided to launch a strict enforcement campaign in the state capital. The initiative aims to make public transport services more transparent and passenger-friendly. Under the special inspection drive, drivers found charging more than the prescribed fare may face penalties of up to ₹5,000.
According to officials, the department has been receiving numerous complaints over the past several months about auto and e-rickshaw operators demanding fares significantly higher than approved rates. The issue has been particularly common around railway stations, bus terminals, hospitals, markets, and commercial hubs, where passengers often have limited transportation options. Many commuters have alleged that they are forced to pay inflated fares even for short distances, and that drivers frequently engage in arguments when questioned about the charges.
In response to these complaints, a special inspection campaign has been launched under the leadership of Patna District Transport Officer (DTO) Upendra Kumar Pal. The campaign will involve extensive monitoring across major routes and public transportation points throughout the city. Officials say the primary objective is to protect passengers' interests and ensure greater discipline within the public transport system.
The Transport Department has clarified that all auto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw drivers are required to strictly adhere to the officially prescribed fare structure. Any driver found charging more than the authorized fare will face action under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Violators may be fined up to ₹5,000, and their permits and vehicle documents may also be examined as part of the enforcement process.
Officials emphasized that the campaign is not solely focused on imposing fines. Efforts will also be made to raise awareness among passengers about official fare rates and their rights as consumers. The department plans to encourage commuters to report cases of overcharging immediately through designated complaint channels and helplines.
Traffic police will play a key role in the operation as well. The Transport Department has instructed traffic personnel to take immediate action whenever complaints of excessive fare collection are received. To strengthen enforcement, joint teams consisting of transport officials and police personnel have been formed.
These teams will be deployed at key locations across the city, including Patna Junction, Gandhi Maidan, Bailey Road, Boring Road, Kankarbagh, and Danapur, among other major routes and transportation hubs. Officials will interact with passengers, verify complaints, and conduct spot inspections wherever necessary. Authorities believe that these measures will significantly reduce instances of fare manipulation.
Daily commuters have welcomed the Transport Department’s decision. Many residents say that arbitrary fare demands have been a long-standing problem in Patna. Office workers, students, women, and senior citizens often find themselves paying more than the official rates, especially during peak hours and in high-demand locations. They hope the campaign will provide much-needed relief.
Some auto and e-rickshaw drivers, however, argue that rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and inflation have affected their earnings. They believe fare structures should be reviewed periodically to balance the interests of both drivers and passengers. Nevertheless, many drivers have acknowledged that compliance with regulations is necessary.
Transportation experts say transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining a reliable public transport system. Effective enforcement of fare regulations can increase public trust and improve service quality. Experts also recommend displaying fare charts prominently inside all autos and e-rickshaws so passengers can easily verify the correct charges.
DTO Upendra Kumar Pal stated that the purpose of the campaign is not to harass drivers but to ensure compliance with established rules. He urged all operators to follow the prescribed fare structure and treat passengers courteously. He also warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the regulations.
The Transport Department believes that if the initiative proves successful, similar monitoring efforts may be expanded to other forms of public transportation in the future. Officials said that future strategies would be based on complaints received from passengers and feedback gathered during the campaign.
For now, the special drive that began in Patna has become a major topic of discussion among commuters and transport operators alike. Residents are hopeful that it will curb overcharging and make travel more affordable and transparent. At the same time, drivers have been put on notice that violations of fare regulations will no longer be tolerated. The effectiveness of the campaign and its impact on daily commuters will become clearer in the coming weeks.
