Navi Mumbai: The Navi Mumbai Traffic Department has taken action against 2,142 rickshaw drivers for violating traffic rules between May 1 and May 23, collecting fines totaling Rs 3.03 lakh. This major crackdown aims to curb reckless driving, refusal of fares, and overloading by rickshaw operators across the city.
The action was taken after the department received several complaints from commuters about errant rickshaw drivers. “Many were reported for refusing fares and operating beyond passenger limits, causing safety concerns and inconvenience to the public.” DCP (traffic) Tirupati Kakade said. Acting on these complaints, the Traffic Police, under the guidance of DCP Kakade and ACP Vitthal Kubde, launched a special drive across Navi Mumbai.
As part of this campaign, 857 rickshaw drivers were fined Rs 48,100 for refusing fares, while 1,285 drivers were fined Rs 55,200 for overloading passengers. The crackdown covered 16 areas within Navi Mumbai, with traffic police teams conducting checks and enforcing the rules.
DCP Tirupati Kakade stated that the campaign will continue, and rickshaw drivers must adhere to traffic rules to ensure road safety. He also appealed to rickshaw drivers and owners to cooperate with the authorities and maintain discipline on the roads.
“We will continue taking similar efforts to create a safer, more organized traffic system and send a strong message against violations that compromise commuter safety. The commuters too should approach us with the complaints regarding the same,” DCP added.
