MVD takes steps to curb fleecing by autorickshaws

Thiruvananthapuram: With more trains operating from Kochuveli railway station, the number of complaints against errant auto rickshaw drivers is also on the rise.
The railways had shifted the operation of four trains from Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station to Kochuveli railway station from September 17, which will continue to operate from there till October 15, due to the ongoing construction work at Thiruvananthapuram Central station.
The motor vehicles department which launched a drive against autorickshaw drivers who refuse rides recently received complaints on fleecing from the railway station.
“There were complaints about autorickshaw drivers operating service from Kochuveli railway station. Most of the complaints were related to fleecing and that many do not switch on the fare meter during service. Stringent action has been initiated against such drivers,” said MVI squad inspector.
Motor vehicles department had published a phone number 8547639101 and email id kl01@keralamvd.gov.in to which people could send complaints to enforcement squad, Thiruvananthapuram RTO. Action against errant auto rickshaw drivers is taken under section 177 in MV Act.
Meanwhile, the MVI squad inspector added that the number of complaints on autorickshaw drivers has declined after the stringent measure was taken.
“Initially, we received around 30 complaints per day against errant auto rickshaws, which has now come down to five. It seems that the auto rickshaw drivers are aware of the drive. However, we will be continuing the drive,” added the MVI inspector.