Auto-Rickshaw Drivers in Hyderabad Distracting Themselves with Mobile Phones
In Hyderabad, auto-rickshaw drivers are increasingly seen engrossed in their mobile phones while driving. Many of them mount their phones on handlebars and use earphones, scrolling through social media reels, watching movies, listening to music, or making calls as they navigate the city’s busy streets. This behavior has frustrated passengers and unions alike, but it seems the traffic police are not taking significant steps to address the issue.
Using mobile phones while driving is against the law, but it has become a common practice among auto-rickshaw drivers. While some use their phones for calls, many are distracted by entertainment. Union representatives acknowledge the problem and partly blame ride aggregator companies and operators for encouraging habits that lead to distractions.
Previously, auto drivers were known for playing loud music in their vehicles. Now, the trend has shifted to more immersive distractions like watching movies or scrolling through social media while driving. This behavior has sparked serious concerns among passengers, fellow motorists, and the general public, as it endangers lives on the road.
Frustrated Passengers and Motorists Speak Out
Divya Khatri, a regular commuter, shared her experience, saying, “I have encountered auto drivers who were busy with their phones, not just calling but also watching entertainment. I urged one driver to slow down and drive safely, but he ignored me and continued watching something on his phone while driving. It was very dangerous.”
Similarly, motorist Sufi Sikander recounted a near-miss incident, explaining, “An auto driver almost hit me in slow-moving traffic near MJ College on Banjara Hills Road No. 3. When I looked back, I saw he was glued to his phone, which was placed horizontally on his handlebar. It’s incredibly unsafe.”
Another commuter, Emraan Khan, added, “Some drivers even make video calls or scroll through social media reels while driving. It’s shocking to see them so distracted when they are responsible for the safety of passengers and others on the road.”
Attempts to Educate Drivers Prove Ineffective
Shaik Salauddin, the founder and president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), acknowledged the issue, stating, “We’ve seen many cases of auto drivers using phones while navigating. We tried to educate them about traffic rules and road safety, but these efforts have largely failed. Many of these drivers come from different districts and lack awareness about safety regulations.”
He also pointed out that traffic police used to conduct awareness programs for auto drivers every three to six months. These sessions included road safety training, documentaries, and certifications for participants. However, such initiatives have apparently been discontinued, leaving a gap in educating drivers about the consequences of their unsafe practices.
Call for Action
Despite growing complaints from passengers and motorists, there has been little action from authorities to address this dangerous trend. The lack of enforcement and awareness programs has allowed this behavior to persist, putting countless lives at risk on Hyderabad’s roads. Many are now urging traffic police and unions to take immediate steps to ensure safer driving practices among auto drivers.
