| Name of Complainant | |
| Date of Complaint | July 22, 2024 |
| Name(s) of companies complained against | |
| Category of complaint | Automobiles |
| Permanent link of complaint | Right click to copy link |
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Virar, Palghar, 401303
21/07/2024
To,
Subject: Complaint Regarding Overcharging by Auto Rickshaws
Dear Sir/Madam,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the high fares being charged by auto rickshaw drivers in the whole of Virar.
Details of the Incident:
– Date and Time: 21/07/2024, 18:28
– Location: Yashwant Nagar
– Auto Rickshaw Number: MH 48 AX 8158
– Fare Charged: ₹60
– Fare Expected/Reasonable: ₹20
Description of the Issue:
On 21/07/2024, I hired an auto rickshaw from Yashwant Nagar, Virar (West) to Gokul Township, Virar (West), which is about 1.8 kms. When I asked the driver about the fare, he told me ₹60, which I believe was exorbitantly high compared to the usual fare for this route. When I questioned the driver, he responded very rudely and harshly, stating that “it is what it is.” When I asked him to reduce it to ₹50, he persistently refused and said he would not budge for less than ₹60. Additionally, the rickshaws around here never use meters, which they have installed just for show. The drivers also wear casual clothes rather than the usual uniforms assigned for auto rickshaw drivers. Many of the rickshaws here are illegal, lacking the proper permits, and some drivers are underage. These drivers often act like gangs of ruffians and threaten violence against helpless people who try to raise their voices against this.
At times, like once in a blue moon when RTO officers come for a round check, one can easily notice how more than half of the rickshaws just disappear. Those who remain charge half the usual amount, and they avoid coming to areas where the officers are present by alerting others.
This is not an isolated incident, as many residents and commuters in our area have faced similar issues. Such practices are not only unethical but also cause significant inconvenience to the public.
Impact:
The overcharging by auto rickshaw drivers affects daily commuters, especially those who rely on this mode of transport for their daily travel. It creates a financial burden and erodes trust in the public transportation system.
Request for Action:
I kindly request your immediate intervention in this matter. Please take the necessary steps to:
1. Investigate the overcharging practices by auto rickshaw drivers in the whole of Virar as soon as possible.
2. Implement strict measures to ensure that drivers adhere to the regulated fare structure.
3. Increase awareness among commuters about their rights and the standard fare rates.
4. Provide a mechanism for commuters to report such incidents easily.
I am hopeful that your prompt action will help address this issue and bring relief to the affected commuters. Please keep me informed about the steps being taken to resolve this matter.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
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