Mumbai: In a strict two-week crackdown on traffic rule violations, the Mumbai Traffic Police launched a focused campaign targeting autorickshaw and taxi drivers, primarily for refusing to ferry passengers. The operation, which took place between April 18 and May 4, resulted in the issuance of over 48,000 e-challans.
The initiative was spearheaded by Joint Commissioner of Traffic, Anil Kumbhare. Of the total penalties, a significant majority, 28,814 challans, were issued to drivers who declined to ply passengers, according to The Times of India report.
A common complaint among commuters in the city. Authorities are currently in the process of initiating licence suspension proceedings for these drivers at various Regional Transport Offices (RTOs).
In addition to the refusals, the traffic police penalised 1,164 drivers for not wearing their mandated uniforms, and 6,268 drivers for carrying more passengers than legally allowed. Another 12,171 challans were issued for assorted traffic infractions, ranging from improper parking to dangerous driving, as per reports.
A police officer mentioned that the operation resulted in the collection of approximately Rs 40.25 lakh in fines over the two weeks. The official emphasised that the crackdown aims to improve the commuter experience, enforce accountability among drivers, and ensure better compliance with transport regulations across the city.
A traffic police official remarked that persistent complaints from the public regarding driver misconduct and traffic rule violations prompted this large-scale action. Authorities intend to continue monitoring auto and taxi services more closely and have not ruled out further disciplinary measures in future campaigns.
