Mumbai: 30 rickshaw drivers booked for violation in special drive

The Vile Parle police, while conducting a special drive against errant auto rickshaw drivers, booked more than 30 auto drivers for allegedly violating traffic rules.

The drive, which has been initiated by the police to address the growing complaints of the commuters in regard to the reckless driving of auto rickshaw drivers, was commenced at the beginning of November. The cops, on a daily basis, have been booking at least 25 such drivers who have been caught red-handed during late night patrolling.

According to the police, some of the most common offences, which are registered, are jumping the red light, speeding on the highway during late night, driving negligently, driving without license and proper permits, driving without proper vehicle registration documents, and not wearing proper uniform and batch.

"In the recent times, the commuters in the suburbs have started complaining that after getting down from railway stations and the airport, the auto drivers are not ready for the ride as the fares are low. Also, the senior citizens and women are getting affected by such behaviour," a traffic cop said.

"During late night, when less vehicles ply on the highways, some drivers take this advantage to speed their vehicles, putting the lives of their passengers at risk. So, we have specifically deployed officers for patrolling where such riders easily fall into our net. After registering a case, their vehicles are confiscated," the officer added, requesting anonymity.

"Some of the drivers don't even know who owns their vehicles and so they drive without any fear," the cop said.