Udupi: Udupi Deputy Commissioner Vidya Kumari, has issued a stern warning to auto-rickshaw drivers, stating that legal action will be taken if they do not adhere to metered fares when providing rental services to the public. 

Speaking at a meeting addressing the shortage of auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, she emphasized that any complaints from the public regarding the failure to use the meter would lead to consequences.

The prescribed minimum fare is Rs 40 for the initial one and a half kilometers, with an additional Rs 20 per kilometer thereafter. A surcharge of one and a half times the fare is applicable from 10 pm to 5 am, and any deviation from these rates will result in punitive action. Auto drivers are strictly limited to operating within the approved area, and violations will be penalized.

The District Collector directed the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and the Police departments to take action against the unauthorized use of private vehicles for rental transportation in the district. Concerns were raised about the increasing trend of people using private vehicles for public transportation, causing inconvenience to compliant taxi drivers and leading to government tax evasion.

During the meeting, Krishnamurthy Acharya, President of the Yashodha Auto Drivers and Owners Association, advocated for including auto drivers as workers and providing them with government facilities. Raghupathi Bhatt, President of the Udupi District Taxi Association, expressed concerns about the illegal rental of private vehicles, making it difficult for taxi professionals to earn a living. 

Udupi SP Dr. Arun K., Additional SP S. T. Siddhalingappa, Regional Transport Officer P. Ravishankar, and Malpe Police Circle Inspector Manjunath.