An autorickshaw driver refusing to ferry you is a daily norm in the Capital. Did you know that autorickshaw or cab drivers cannot refuse to ferry a passenger without a valid reason and that passengers can register a complaint against the driver concerned? However, most prefer to wait and find another autorickshaw or cab to take them to their destination.
The Delhi Traffic Police said commuters can register their complaints against autorickshaws or taxis if drivers refuse to ferry them without a valid reason by sending an SMS on its helpline 56767.
“We take action against drivers of autorickshaw or taxis in case they refuse to take passengers or misbehave with them. Commuters can register complaints via the traffic police’s Sentinel app or through an SMS. We take action against such complaints promptly,” said Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Alok Kumar.
A traffic policemen deployed near Saket metro station said, “Not many people register complaints. Most of them just take another autorickshaw. If someone registers a complaint, we challan the auto driver.”
Working professionals, especially ones who work late at night, are often at the receiving end of rude behaviour by autorickshaw drivers. Many said they have no choice but to accept the exorbitant fares quoted by the drivers.
“The problem worsens at night as autorickshaw drivers overcharge and argue over the slightest of things like going an extra 100 metres,” said Nikhil, a working professional who commutes via public transport.
Shivani, another working professional, said, “A huge problem with autorickshaws in Delhi is that they do not run by meter. Due to this, one ends up overpaying often. If you are not from Delhi, you sometimes end up paying twice the actual amount.”
To a question on whether she has registered a complaint, Shivani replied, “I am aware of the helpline but have never filed a complaint... It is much easier to get another autorickshaw than complain against one.”
Autorickshaws refusing to ferry passengers or overcharging helped cab aggregators immensely as many commuters switched over to them. “I prefer using the services of app-based cab aggregators over taking an autorickshaws since taxis are a much better option... They are safer and more convenient even though the drivers cancel rides sometimes,” said Arpit.
A spokesperson with one of the cab aggregators said they strictly monitor driver ratings given by commuters. If a driver’s rating dips below 4.2, he is barred till he provides a satisfactory answer regarding why he cancelled rides.
“We only assign rides to drivers with good ratings. The mobile app has a support option where commuters can report any issue they face,” the spokesperson said.
