Bengaluru Police Launch Kannada Phrase Cards for Autorickshaw Drivers to Improve Passenger Communication

November 3, 2024

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In a new initiative to foster Kannada language usage and bridge communication gaps, Bengaluru Police have started distributing Kannada phrase cards to autorickshaw drivers across the city. The laminated cards, launched as part of Karnataka Rajyotsava celebrations, feature essential Kannada phrases with English translations to help drivers communicate more effectively with passengers.

The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner, B. Dayananda, announced that the distribution process, which began on Friday, will continue through the next month. “The primary goal is to facilitate smooth interactions between passengers and drivers, particularly in light of recent communication-related incidents,” Dayananda stated.

Each card includes a QR code, which, when scanned, links to a video demonstration, allowing drivers and passengers to see and hear accurate pronunciations of the phrases. This effort aims to promote Kannada as an accessible language for both locals and newcomers, while creating a sense of inclusivity and respect for Karnataka’s culture.

The concept was inspired by Ajmal Sultan, a Bengaluru autorickshaw driver known on social media as @autokannadiga0779, who pioneered a similar initiative. Sultan’s effort garnered significant attention and led the police to adopt and expand the idea.

“This Kannada Rajyotsava, the Bengaluru Traffic Police proudly introduces a small step towards promoting Kannada! Look for #LearnKannada messages on 5,000 autos around the city. Embrace the language, embrace the culture,” tweeted M. N. Anucheth, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), on X (formerly Twitter).

The initiative is voluntary for auto drivers, with costs fully covered by the Police Department. By equipping drivers with these cards, the Bengaluru Police aim to foster a more inclusive environment for all residents and visitors, while celebrating Karnataka’s linguistic heritage.