Pune Regional Transport Office Warns Of Licence Suspension As Action Against Errant Autorickshaw Drivers Intensifies
Pune Regional Transport Office Warns Of Licence Suspension As Action Against Errant Autorickshaw Drivers Intensifies
Pune: The Regional Transport Office, Pune has stepped up its crackdown on autorickshaw drivers who repeatedly violate transport regulations. Over the past ten months, authorities have taken action against 517 drivers and recovered fines totaling more than ₹3.6 lakh.
Despite ongoing enforcement campaigns, officials say many drivers continue to ignore mandatory rules. As a result, the RTO is preparing to introduce tougher penalties, including temporary suspension or cancellation of driving licences for repeat offenders.
By the end of 2025, Pune had approximately 1.29 lakh registered autorickshaw drivers. Under Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department guidelines, drivers must wear a prescribed uniform—typically a white or khaki shirt and pyjamas—and display a clearly visible identification badge with their registration number. These requirements are intended to help passengers verify drivers’ credentials and improve overall safety.
However, inspections have found several drivers operating without proper uniforms or ID badges, often leading to fare disputes and passenger complaints. Between April 2025 and January 2026, RTO teams carried out daily checks across the city, fining each violator ₹700. The total penalties collected during this period amounted to ₹3,61,900.
Officials have cautioned that repeated breaches of traffic and operational rules under the Motor Vehicles Act could result in stricter consequences. Drivers have been directed to comply fully with uniform and identification norms to avoid further action.
Deputy Regional Transport Officer Swapnil Bhosale confirmed that a dedicated inspection squad is monitoring compliance citywide. He emphasized that firm measures will continue against those who disregard regulations, with the goal of safeguarding passengers and maintaining discipline within Pune’s public transport network.
