In a bid to crack down on irregularities in the auto-rickshaw sector and push the use of Marathi among drivers, the state transport department will conduct a special licence verification drive between May 1 and August 15 . The campaign will include scrutiny of permits, badges, and licences, along with an assessment of drivers’ working knowledge of Marathi.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the exercise is aimed at curbing fake licences and ensuring transparency in passenger services, while also improving communication between drivers and commuters. “Basic knowledge of Marathi is necessary for smooth interaction with passengers.…