SRINAGAR: To put an end to overcharging, the Transport Department has made fare meters compulsory for all auto-rickshaws across Baramulla district. Operators failing to comply with the order risk legal action under the Motor Vehicles Act, officials said.
Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Baramulla, Mudasir Wani, in an order directed all categories of auto-rickshaws, including conventional three-wheelers, e-autos and e-rickshaws to install duly calibrated fare meters and charge passengers strictly according to meter readings with immediate effect.
According to the order, no auto-rickshaw without a functional fare meter shall be permitted to operate. Authorities have also directed operators to prominently display the approved fare chart inside their vehicles for the convenience of passengers.
The ARTO warned that any violation of the directions will invite action under the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. “No deviation from the prescribed fare structure shall be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said.
As per the revised rates, conventional auto-rickshaws will charge Rs 46 for the first two kilometres and Rs 20 for every subsequent kilometre, while waiting charges have been fixed at Rs 25 per hour. E-rickshaw fares have been fixed at Rs 15 per kilometre, while e-autos will charge Rs 25 for the first kilometre and Rs 20 for each additional kilometre.
Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring transparency in fare collection, preventing overcharging and protecting the interests of commuters. The department has asked all operators to ensure immediate compliance, warning that enforcement drives will be carried out to check violations. (KNO)
