Doon Auto Rides: Friends on Board Raise Safety Alarms

Commuters in Dehradun have voiced significant safety concerns regarding the prevalent practice of app-based auto-rickshaw drivers transporting friends or acquaintances during active rides. This trend poses a direct threat to passenger security, especially for lone women who report feeling intimidated by the presence of unexpected individuals. Drivers often dismiss these concerns, asserting the companions are friends.

The issue extends beyond personal safety, as it leads to overcrowding, violating legal passenger limits. Auto-rickshaws are legally permitted to carry only three passengers besides the driver. Overloaded vehicles have been observed with up to five occupants. Transport authorities confirm this practice breaches commercial permit guidelines and platform regulations, leading to challans and potential punitive action against drivers and permit holders.

Ride-sharing aggregators have stated that their policies strictly prohibit third-party riders. Companies like Rapido and Uber have policies in place for driver penalties, including suspension or permanent deactivation, for such violations. They urge passengers to report these incidents immediately via the app's safety helpline.

Authorities remind citizens that license holders must maintain effective grievance redressal systems. Passengers who do not receive satisfactory responses from companies are encouraged to report vehicle details directly to the regional transport office for enforcement.