Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) is weighing a plan to bring the joint forces on board for a campaign to curb fare-padding and other offences by CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers, reports bdnews24.com.
"There are a lot of complaints against CNG auto-rickshaws and taxicabs. Two mobile courts are already on the road to punish fare refusals and to curb fare hiking," BRTA chairman Abu Bakar Md Shahjahan told the news agency Monday.
"Some drivers have been sent to jail because drivers and operators seem unmoved by fines. Things will get stricter after Eid. We are thinking of asking the joint forces for help," Shahjahan said.
Despite a government price-hike for CNG auto-rickshaw fares, drivers regularly refuse to take passengers to their destinations or refuse to turn on the meter. If they agree to a trip, they tack on a Tk 10 or Tk 15 surcharge, passengers allege.
Observers say the situation is getting worse as Eid approaches.
BRTA officials said fining non-compliant drivers was proving ineffective. Drivers are now being awarded jail sentences for their offences.
The last few days have seen some 20 CNG drivers being sent to jail for two-month terms. At least 1,350 cases have been filed and some 150 auto-rickshaws have been seized.
The authorities have brought in some Tk 0.1 million (1 lakh) in fines so far.
BRTA may bring joint forces to curb fare woes by autorickshaw drivers
FE Team | Published: October 03, 2007 00:00:00 | Updated: February 01, 2018 00:00:00
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