Pune: Traffic cops to use social media to rein in rogue auto drivers

In its bid to rein in errant auto rickshaw drivers, who refuse to ply short distances or overcharge passengers, the traffic police department plans to ask commuters to register their complaints via Facebook, WhatsApp or e-mail.

The department will be joining hands with the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO), for effective implementation of the drive from November first week.

File pic for representation

Speaking to mid-day, DCP (Traffic) Sarang Awad said, “I have been receiving complaints about errant auto drivers regularly. So, I instructed my team to use social media to zero in on the offenders. We will be using dummy customers to flush out the rogue drivers. We would like to have a flying squad of RTO officials with us, so that cases against the offenders can be registered immediately.”

Meanwhile, officials from Pune RTO are working on software that would help them track repeat offenders. Once it becomes operational, the software will help officials suspend licences — for anywhere between 30 to 60 days — depending on the nature of the offence.

Deputy Regional Transport Officer Anil Valiv said, “It has been a year since the fare hike came into effect, but the cases of refusal and overcharging refuse to cease. Hence, we have decided to launch an extensive drive to curb the malpractices by auto drivers.”