Mysuru: A section of train commuters alleged that autorickshaw drivers harass and threaten passengers who book bike taxis near the city railway station.A debate erupted recently after a video showing autorickshaw drivers attacking a youth went viral on social media. Commuters said such incidents are frequent and demanded strict police action to ensure passenger safety and freedom of choice in transport. Meanwhile, the railway police informed that they regularly warn autorickshaw drivers against harassing bike taxi riders or passengers.Ravi Keerthi Gowda, an activist, said that autorickshaw drivers targeting bike taxi riders and passengers is not new on railway station premises. “That is why the bike taxi captains ask us to come outside for pick-up. This issue needs to be addressed,” he said.Ramesh Bhat, another bike taxi user, said this issue is not limited to the railway station. “Bike taxi drivers are harassed even near city bus stands. They work in fear because of a few trouble-creating auto drivers. In Mysuru city, most of the bike taxi captains are unemployed youth and students who work for their livelihood,” he added.“After the recent revision of the auto fare, bike taxis are very affordable. For those who travel alone, these bike taxis are more suitable. However, auto drivers target them, alleging they eat into their income,” he said.The railway police informed that a petty case was registered in connection with a recent incident of assault on a train passenger who booked a bike taxi. “Earlier also, we warned the auto driver against blocking or abusing the bike taxi riders,” they informed.
