Journalism of Courage
The auto fare hike (Rs 11.65 per km),which comes into effect from October 15,has irked citizens groups who have demand that the fare be fixed at a round figure of Rs 11.50 per km and meter be calibrated to round up the total fare to the nearest 50 paise.
Pedestrians First convenor Prashant Inamdar,who met Regional Transport Officer,said that fare hike should never be considered in isolation.
The fare hike should be linked with performance of rickshaws. As there are serious issues regarding rickshaw operators,the RTA should have formulated standards of performance for rickshaw service based on quality of service,plying as per demand irrespective of distance,and charging only as per meter or tariff card, said Inamdar.
The citizens group demanded that drivers should display information about rickshaw owners and vehicle on a laminated card behind the driver seat. The information should include name,address,phone number,photograph,registration number,contract carriage licence number (information should be in RTO approved format with a stamp and signature). Similarly,a separate card should display drivers name,address,phone number,photograph and RTO badge number.
A driver should always wear RTO specified uniform with a badge and photo ID card displayed in the front,said Inamdar.
The other citizens group demand that vehicles should use correct grade fuel to minimise pollution.
