Hyderabad police warn against mobile phone use while driving

Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has warned against auto-rickshaw and cab drivers using mobile phones while driving. He urged passengers to report dangerous behaviour through Dial 112, while police advised commuters to avoid confrontations and prioritise safety.

Hyderabad: For passengers travelling in an auto-rickshaw or cab, a routine journey could turn dangerous when the person behind the wheel is distracted by a mobile phone.

City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has raised concern over the growing practice of auto and cab drivers watching videos, scrolling through reels and attending calls while driving, warning that such behaviour puts the lives of passengers and other road users at serious risk.

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In an appeal to citizens, Sajjanar highlighted a disturbing incident in which an auto driver was allegedly transporting passengers late at night with two mobile phones placed in front of him. While one phone displayed navigation, the other was playing videos. The driver was also wearing large headphones with illuminated lights, further raising concerns about his attention to the road.

Appealing to commuters, the Commissioner urged passengers to question drivers who engage in such conduct and ask them to stop using distracting devices. If a driver ignores the warning or continues to drive dangerously, commuters should report the matter by calling Dial 112, the emergency response number.

However, police officials said passengers should avoid physical confrontations with drivers while a vehicle is moving. Where possible, they should ask the driver to stop at a safe location before raising the issue and report immediate dangers to the authorities concerned.