Archive · 12 Aug 2025
Pilgrims Targeted by Auto Cartels in Tirupati
Imagine you're going on a special trip to a religious place in Tirupati.
But before you even get there, the auto drivers are making it hard for you.
They don't use meters, and they charge way too much money.
Some drivers are even being mean and sometimes hitting people!
These drivers have a group that helps them control who can drive where and how much they can charge.
The police are now saying they'll try to fix it by checking the fares and maybe using an app to keep track of the autos.
Pilgrims in Tirupati face harassment and inflated fares from auto rickshaw drivers.
Aggressive drivers, operating without meters, often charge 35-40% above official rates.
A video of passenger assault by auto drivers went viral, highlighting the issue.
Auto cartels, backed by unions and political patrons, control key pick-up points.
Authorities plan to address the issue through fare reviews, enforcement, and app implementation.
- Who
- Pilgrims, auto rickshaw drivers, local unions, and authorities.
- What
- Pilgrims in Tirupati are facing harassment and overcharging by auto rickshaw drivers.
- When
- The issue has persisted for years, with recent incidents including passenger assaults.
- Where
- Tirupati, a pilgrimage site in India.
- Why
- Auto drivers overcharge due to lack of oversight and control by cartels with political backing.
Pilgrims
Auto Drivers
Fares and Control
Pilgrims
Pilgrims want fair fares and safe transport.
Auto Drivers
Auto drivers want to maximize profits and control routes.
- Location
- Tirupati, India
- Issue
- Auto rickshaw driver harassment and fare gouging
- Official Fare Increase
- 35-40%
- Alleged protection fees for membership
- Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh
- Authorities action
- Reviewing fares, registering cases, reinstating meters