The new fares for CNG-run auto-rickshaws and taxis came into force on March 1. It marks an increase of INR 3 each in minimum rates. With this change in the rates, drivers and owners of these vehicles will have to recalibrate their electronic fare meters. The deadline given by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) for the same is May 31.
According to reports, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) has around 60,000 taxis and 4.6 lakh auto-rickshaws, including some petrol-run vehicles.
However, it has come to light that not a single auto or taxi was registered at any of the RTOs across Mumbai. Initially, there was a dip in customers as many are financially hit by the pandemic, but later people were shifting to autos as it is the most convenient mode of transport.
Now, with the fare hike, the drivers fear that it will further reduce the number of passengers.
At many places, drivers charged old fares as they did not have the revised tariff cards. Despite this, the ridership of auto-rickshaws and taxis was hit by 15-20 per cent on the first day of a hike in fares. Meanwhile, some decided to charge new fares after the meter is recalibrated.
The recalibration process will involve installing chips and then testing of meters by RTO officials. The recalibration of meters has commenced from March 1 and drivers have been asked to get their meters recalibrated by May 31. Hence, the new tariff card will only be valid till May 31, 2021.
About eight manufacturers in the MMR have been entrusted with the task of changing the meter.
Moreover, it was also observed that not a single auto-rickshaw at Mumbai RTO, which includes Wadala, Andheri, Borivali and Thane RTO had come for the meter recalibration. The officials also stated that recalibrating meters of more than four lakhs auto and 60,000 taxis on time is challenging. Hence, the question arises that what if the recalibration of meters is not completed on time?
Guess, we will get to know the answer to this very soon.
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