Crackdown on autos for overcharging, refusing to ply by meter

delhi

Updated: Apr 27, 2016 20:44 IST

After taking action against app-based taxi services for surge pricing, the transport department has initiated a drive against auto-rickshaw drivers for overcharging.

Till Friday evening, 170 autos were challaned for refusing to go by the meter. Transport minister Gopal Rai said the drive would continue as complaints are trickling in.

“The action on surge pricing was based on complaints and this action is also a result of complaints by commuters. We will not compromise with the convenience of the passenger,” said Rai.

The commuters, however, continued to face a harrowing time.

“Action should be taken against those who are refusing to ferry commuters. I had to go from Saket to High Court. Exactly 15 autos refused, one of them even asked for Rs 200. After waiting for more than half-an-hour, I booked an Ola cab and reached my destination in Rs 140,” said Sanya Saxena, a media professional.

Another commuter Tarun Singh, shared a similar story, “I was refused by at least dozen autos at Nehru Place. Finally, I booked an Uber and reached home.”

Rai said due to the heat, more passengers have shifted to Metro trains than buses. The Delhi Transport Corporation and cluster buses together carried over 50 lakh passengers while Delhi Metro carried around 30 lakh passengers on Thursday.

No action was taken against app-based cabs for surge pricing on Thursday and Friday.