Thousands of commuters stranded in Bengaluru as auto drivers go on strike

Protesting drivers demanded an immediate ban by Transport Minister B Sriramulu claiming that their livelihoods were at stake because of the illegal bike taxis.

BySouth First Desk

Published Mar 22, 2023 | 5:38 PMUpdatedMar 22, 2023 | 5:38 PM

Auto drivers from various unions across Bengaluru went on a strike Monday, 20 March, demanding an immediate ban on bike taxis in the city.

Thousands of commuters, especially those outside railway stations and bus terminals, were stranded with long waiting times to book taxis on app-based mobility service providers.

Protesting drivers demanded an immediate ban by Transport Minister B Sriramulu claiming that their livelihoods were at stake because of the illegal bike taxis.

Social media was also abuzz over ‘arrogant’, ‘unfriendly’, and ‘rude’ auto drivers in the city who don’t charge by the meter or demand extra from commuters.