Auto-rickshaw fares set for revision after 12 years

Jaipur: The regional transport office (RTO) in Jaipur is set to revise auto-rickshaw fares this month, marking the first revision in 12 years. A proposal for the revised rates has been drafted by the authorities and would be discussed with auto-rickshaw unions this week, said sources.

In a memorandum submitted to the RTO, Jaipur Mahanagar Tipahiya Vahan Chalak Union (JMTVCU), a body of auto-rickshaw owners and drivers, has demanded that the fare for the first kilometre be set at Rs 30 and Rs 14 for each subsequent kilometre. Union president Kuldeep Singh said since auto-rickshaw fares have not been raised for a long time, owners and drivers demand the new rates as per the previously fixed rates.

"Previously, the fare was set at Rs 30 for the first kilometre, and Rs 9 per kilometre thereafter. We also suggested a 25% increase in night charges, along with one free luggage charge, followed by Rs 10 per piece, and a waiting charge of Rs 40," said Singh. Once the rates are finalised, all auto-rickshaw drivers would adhere to passenger regulations, uniforms, insurance, and driving licences should be mandatory, he added.

There are more than 45,000 auto-rickshaws operating in Jaipur, and the last fare list was issued by the transport department in 2013. Auto and taxi union officials have requested fare hikes several times since.

Officials of RTO Jaipur (I) said the determination of fares will be proposed in a meeting with JMTVCU on April 16. "Once the notification is issued, action will be taken to ensure autos and cabs operate according to the new fare rates, providing relief to the public from arbitrary fares," said a senior official.

About 90% of auto-rickshaws in Jaipur currently work with mobile app-based companies. "It will also be mandatory for auto-rickshaws to install meters. If any auto-rickshaw is found not having a functional meter, there will be a provision of a fine," said the official.