In order to make fares fair for passengers, Maharashtra State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has set a new deadline. Taxi and auto-rickshaw drivers will now need to operate meter-based services, charging passengers according to government rates. Drivers who fail to follow the new rules will be dealt with strict action. Here’s more on this.
Maharashtra Sets Deadline For Auto And Taxi Drivers In Vasai-Virar
We have all been victims of being overcharged by auto rickshaws and taxi drivers when in a hurry. On October 13, Maharashtra State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced a change in rules and regulations for auto and taxi drivers in the state.
He shared on his official X handle that a meeting was held at Mantralaya to address traffic congestion in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation area. During which, taxi and rickshaw drivers in Vasai-Virar were directed to use meters to charge passengers from November 15 onwards.
According to a report by Mumbai Live, this announcement comes after years of complaints from locals about auto drivers demanding exorbitantly priced fares, even for short distances. Sneha Dube, BJP MLA from Vasai, raised the issue with Pratap Sarnaik, after which a meeting was called with representatives from the Vasai-Virar traffic police and transport agency, resulting in this decision.
Long-Distance Bus Services To Start Soon
As per a report by Mumbai Live, under the new regulations, share auto rickshaws will continue to operate on their existing routes, including from train terminals to other destinations. They will run at current tariffs. However, autos providing individual trips must use meters to charge passengers. Fares will be set at government rates. Strict action will be taken against drivers who do not follow the rules. They will face serious consequences from RTO officials and traffic police.
As per the same post on X, Pratap Sarnaik also directed the State Transportation Corporation to start long-distance bus services from the Vasai-Virar area to Thane and Kalyan. Authorities were instructed to activate the Virar, Vasai, and Nalasopara bus depots within the Vasai-Virar Municipal area.
Also Read: Mumbai Metro 3 Sees Over 1.59 Lakh Riders On Day 2; Bus & Shared Taxis Witness A Drop In Numbers
It is high time that auto rickshaw and taxi drivers start charging fares set by the government. What do you think of this new decision? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/ Knipptang and Canva Pro/ Chris Putnam
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.