In the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, an alarming case of auto drivers exploiting passengers has come to light. An auto driver charged a KGMU (King George's Medical University) doctor 2,000 rupees for merely covering a 200-meter distance. After the complaint, the GRP took swift action, seizing the auto and preparing for legal proceedings.
The incident occurred on Friday morning. Dr. Sunny Chaudhary arrived in Lucknow to catch the Dehradun Vande Bharat Express train. Due to confusion regarding the station, he reached the Lucknow Charbagh Station instead of the smaller Lucknow Junction. An auto driver there assured him of reaching the train by having the gate opened.
He transported the doctor just 200 meters to the junction station and charged a steep fare of 2,000 rupees. Following this, the doctor lodged a complaint with the GRP. Investigations revealed that the auto was registered with the royal auto association operated at the Charbagh Station. Currently, the GRP has impounded the auto.
It is noteworthy that the variation in names between Lucknow Station and Lucknow Junction often confuses passengers. The ticket mentions "LKO" or "NE," causing out-of-town travelers to reach the wrong station. Auto drivers exploit this situation by charging exorbitant fares.
‘Strict Actions to Follow’
The closure of prepaid booths further exacerbates passenger difficulties, preventing them from hiring autos at regulated rates. Previously, passengers could avail themselves of affordable auto services under the GRP’s supervision at prepaid booths. However, the current scenario is different. Approximately 300 autos associated with the station enter the premises without regulated fares, extracting arbitrary amounts from travelers. The police have declared that stringent actions will now be taken against such complaints to protect passengers from exploitation.
Stay informed and safe while traveling.
