Amid the controversy of banning carpool in the state, Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy on Tuesday stated that the it is not banned in the state instead only one or two app offering the services are fined.
Speaking to the reporters, Reddy said, “App-based carpooling services have not been banned, and they are currently operational. However, a few of these services have been fined for violations.”
#WATCH | On carpooling, Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy says, "We have not banned it…They (app-based carpooling services) are running. Only one or two have been fined…" pic.twitter.com/dLNWZWa2Fj
— ANI (@ANI) October 3, 2023
Bengaluru, often hailed as the Silicon Valley of India, has long been contending with a persistent problem – traffic congestion. To tackle this issue, the city has recently implemented a ban on carpooling within its boundaries. Nonetheless, this decision has sparked mixed reactions and concerns among the populace.
🚨 Bengaluru has banned carpooling within the city limits. According to the new rules, carpooling can attract fines up to ₹10,000. 🤷
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) October 1, 2023
The ban comes with penalties of up to ₹10,000 for those found in violation, prompting many residents to question its viability and potential repercussions. Although the government’s objective is to alleviate traffic congestion and curb pollution, skeptics contend that the ban might yield the opposite results.
"those who will be caught using a private vehicle for commercial purposes through apps like Quick Ride and Bla Bla Cars will face heavy challans of 10,000, cancellation of their car registration, or both"
— Indian Tech & Infra (@IndianTechGuide) October 1, 2023
Taking the matter to X (formerly Twitter), Indian Tech & Infra wrote, “Bengaluru has banned carpooling within the city limits. According to the new rules, carpooling can attract fines up to ₹10,000.”
“Those who will be caught using a private vehicle for commercial purposes through apps like Quick Ride and Bla Bla Cars will face heavy challans of 10,000, cancellation of their car registration, or both,” they further wrote.
Read More: Bengaluru’s Carpooling Ban Sparks Controversy; Know What Netizens Have To Say
A significant concern voiced by citizens pertains to the potential rise in vehicular traffic. Carpooling, a widely adopted practice in numerous cities globally, promotes ride-sharing among individuals, ultimately leading to a reduction in the overall number of vehicles on the road. With the ban on carpooling, Bengaluru runs the risk of pushing more people towards using their private cars, which could exacerbate traffic congestion.
Read More: WATCH | Bengaluru’s Long Weekend Traffic Jam: Chaos At Nandi Hills
Additionally, accusations have emerged suggesting that the ban may favor autorickshaw drivers over the general public. Some residents argue that the decision appears to align with the interests of taxi and autorickshaw unions, potentially compromising the convenience of commuters.
