Patna Launches Crackdown on Auto, E-Rickshaw Fare Overcharging

Brief By Newsbrief / 3:21 PM on 23 Jun 2026

The Bihar Transport Department has launched a special enforcement drive across Patna to curb complaints of fare overcharging by auto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw drivers. The campaign, being conducted under the supervision of District Transport Officer Upendra Kumar Pal, aims to ensure compliance with prescribed fare rates and provide relief to commuters.

Officials said drivers found charging passengers above approved rates could face penalties of up to ₹5,000. The action follows repeated complaints from commuters regarding excessive fare demands and disputes on several city routes.

Joint enforcement teams comprising Transport Department officials and traffic police personnel will conduct surprise inspections at key transit points, including Patna Junction, Gandhi Maidan, Bailey Road, Boring Road, Kankarbagh and Danapur. Authorities may also interact directly with passengers to verify fare practices.

The department stated that the initiative is intended to improve transparency, strengthen public transport monitoring and ensure that commuters are not subjected to arbitrary pricing across the city.