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Auto and taxi fare in Mumbai may increase by ₹2-3

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) has approved the decision and the RTO along with the union will jointly determine the fare hike.

Auto and taxi fare in Mumbai may increase by ₹2-3
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In a recently taken decision, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) has approved the decision to increase autorickshaw and taxi (cab) fares in Mumbai.  The RTO and the union will jointly determine the fare, but as per reports, it is said that if the permission may be granted for a hike of two to three rupees. 

The decision was taken to ensure that the auto and taxi drivers who have faced financial crunch during the coronavirus lockdown are able to meet their daily expectations and expenses. While the decision might not be supported by the passengers, several drivers who have been unemployed for over three months now have been facing several challenges, both to meet their daily needs and also to pay the EMI for these vehicles.

On the contrary, some passenger rights activists have also raised objections regarding the fare hike stating that it is not right to impose a burden on passengers after facing a strict lockdown. However, on the other hand for the third consecutive week, the prices of fuel - both petrol and Diesel - have seen a steady increase and this could also pose as a reason for the increase in the fare.

Meanwhile, to ensure safety during the rides, autorickshaw drivers have been asked to install a protective shield between the driver and passenger seats. Cab aggregator, Ola, recently shared this decision and made it mandatory to put protective shields entire inside autorickshaws which have a tie-up with the aggregator. A statement released by Ola the spokesperson said that the decision was taken to ensure drivers and citizens rides are comfortable and safe, as auto-rickshaws are widely used as means of commute in India.

The number of cases in Maharashtra has been increasing exponentially. However, under the 'Mission Begin Again' initiative, the state government has decided to allow the duties of some-more sectors to resume from June 30, 2020. Out of several businesses, the government has decided to relax restrictions on taxis and auto-rickshaws in the city. A 13-member task force has also been set up to understand the problems faced both by the commuters and the drivers which will help officials take certain steps thereby reduce the risk of coronavirus. The first meeting for the same was held on June 26, 2020, via a video conference. 

Currently, only BEST bus services are being used by commuters across Mumbai and with taxis and autos back on road, commuters will have some relief to reach offices, without much hassle. The government has permitted offices and businesses to resume duties at a 10 per cent capacity, while many shops across Mumbai are opening only on alternate days.

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