Navi Mumbai: Acting on various complaints by the residents and local leaders, Seawoods Traffic unit has launched a special drive against auto-rickshaw drivers who refuse fares and violate traffic rules. Over the past eight days, traffic police have acted against more than 200 errant drivers. Authorities have warned that strict enforcement will continue, urging rickshaw owners and drivers to comply with traffic regulations.

“Several passengers had complained about reckless driving and fare refusals by some auto-rickshaw drivers. Responding to these concerns, we initiated efforts to discipline drivers through awareness programs and direct enforcement,” a police official from Seawoods traffic unit said.

Under the leadership of Senior Police Inspector Mohini Lokhande, meetings are being conducted with rickshaw drivers, owners, and unions near Seawoods Railway Station, malls, and other busy areas. Drivers are being instructed to park systematically to prevent traffic congestion and ensure smooth pedestrian movement.

They are also being reminded to wear uniforms, operate rickshaws as per meter rates, avoid overloading, refrain from drunk driving, and not overcharge passengers.

Additionally, auto-rickshaw drivers are being urged to treat female passengers with courtesy. Alongside these awareness efforts, Seawoods Traffic Police have already penalized over 200 rickshaws refusing fares. The crackdown has been welcomed by commuters, who are calling for sustained action to maintain discipline among rickshaw drivers.

For a long time, the commuters have been complaining about the auto drivers who do not charge as per the meter fare in Seawood West area. “After such actions by the officials, the auto drivers start plying as per meter fare for few days. They are then back to their unruly ways. Only a continuous nonstop action against the auto drivers will get them to discipline,” a resident of sector 50 in Seawoods, said.