State Transport Commissioner Shekhar Chenne

badges or licences

Lokmanya Tilak Terminus

zero tolerance

The drivers challenged the suspension of their licences and their appeals were rejected.For all of you Mumbaikars left seething at any point for being refused a ride by an auto driver, here’s your moment to say – “they had it coming.”The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has cancelled licences of 918 autorickshaw drivers in the past six months for refusing fares. This drive against errant auto drivers covered Mumbai and Thane (city) regions.Since the 918 drivers challenged the suspension of their licences and their appeals were rejected, they will not be able to drive any public passenger vehicle across the country.The drive helmed bywas launched in February 2019 and 12,342 auto drivers were booked for various offences, including the 918 who were found guilty of refusing fares.Over 5,500 drivers were booked for ferrying more than three passengers, 6,257 were not carrying theirand 42 drivers were penalised for over charging.Over 60 per cent of offences were recorded in BKC, Bandra terminus , Kurla and, said an officer. “Overall, Bandra and Kurla are the worst affected, followed by Andheri in western suburbs and Vikhroli and Ghatkopar in eastern suburbs,” said an official.Assistant Regional Transport Officer Tanaji Chavan, who supervised the 14 special squads formed to crackdown on auto drivers following a slew of complaints from passengers, said his officers conducted surprise checks, posing as customers.Chenne said there will befor auto drivers who refuse fares. “These drivers will have to go off the streets,” he said.Auto union leader Thumpi Kurian, however, criticised the drive, calling it too harsh. “It will directly impact 918 families. These drivers must get another chance.” he said.Commuters’ rights activists, however, lauded the RTO drive, saying fare refusals are rampant outside railway stations during peak hours. “In a city where last mile connectivity is so important given the long distances people travel from stations to their homes, autos must not be allowed to refuse rides,” said consumer activist Chetan Kothari.Another activist, who did not wish to be identified, said the RTO must be supported by traffic police, who have a bigger presence on the streets.