A two-years-old forum is trying to change the way the taxi service is perceived in the district. Over the years, several drivers in the profession have earned a bad name by over-speeding with children on board or filling children into the vehicle beyond capacity.

"We actively take up cases against taxi drivers who violate norms," says CPI(M) leader and honorary president of the Dakshina Kannada School Vehicle Drivers Association Sunil Kumar Bajal. He said a helpline number has assisted them in facilitating citizens who often bring complaints to their notice.

The association took credit for alerting law enforcers about a recent incident of a student allegedly clinging on to the glass of a moving Omni van, which later became a point of public debate. They believe in the motto 'Children's safety is our prime duty'.

Leaders of the organisation said the main purpose of the organisation is to instill a sense of law among the drivers. For the purpose, a helpline number 8762381127 has been created.

The organisation has at present about 500 members and is looking to expand its operations throughout the district and sensitising drivers about the law, said Sunil, who added that the organisation will continue to step forward against any violation of law even by its members, in coordination with the police department and the RTO.

As per law, the number of children allowed in an Omni van is 9, in a rickshaw is 6, and a taxi cab is 18, added members of the organisation.