Taxis to keep an eye on errant bus drivers

The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has decided to engage private taxis to keep an eye on errant bus drivers. Dastagir Shariff, Chief Traffic Manager Operations of BMTC said the taxis, along with the eight sarathi vehicles engaged for the purpose, will keep tabs on the bus drivers. BMTC will also post their security personnel and officials in civil dress at various bus stops to keep an eye on the bus movements.

These taxis will be placed zone-wise within the Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) limits to ensure that BMTC drivers follow traffic norms. Commuters complain that bus drivers either slide ahead or stop the vehicle way behind the scheduled stops which prompt other motorists to sneak into the space between the bus and the stop.

“Since drivers recognise the sarathis, these taxis will come in handy. They will be placed in all prime locations across the city and will have the authority to levy fine on the law-violating drivers,” he said. “Drivers will be forced to follow traffic norms and stop at assigned stops. Officials and taxi drivers have been empowered to impose fines on drivers for a maximum of Rs 250 per offence on spot,” said Shariff.