New e-rickshaw fares see no implemention, commuters suffer

Baramulla, Jan 29: Days after the administration fixed fares for electric auto’s across Jammu and Kashmir, the e-auto operators continue to flout the government order.

Two weeks back, Transport Commissioner, Vishesh Paul Mahajan announced that the fare for electric rickshaws has been fixed at Rs 10 per kilometre per passenger, up to a maximum distance of 6 kilometres. While installation of meters in all other auto-rickshaws have been made mandatory.

However, on ground there has been no implementation of the announced fixed fare for the e-autos and operators of these e-auto’s continue to charge passengers at their will.

The decision by the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department to fix e-rickshaw fare at Rs 10 per kilometre has sparked discontent among rickshaw drivers. The drivers argue that the rates are inadequate to sustain their livelihoods, particularly amidst escalating inflation and rising operational costs.

Similar concern has been shown by the e-rickshaw operators in Jammu also who sighted escalating inflation and rising operational costs as a big reason to oppose the move.

However, the commuters have expressed concern over the authorities’ failure to implement the new fare charges.

“There is no implementation of the fresh order on ground,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a Baramulla resident. “Implementation of the order is equally important, otherwise the new order will remain only on paper,” added Ahmad.

The commuters have now demanded immediate implementation of the new fare order. They argue that despite their lower operating costs, electric autos are charging the same fares as their petrol counterparts, leading to discontent among passengers.

As per available information an electric auto equipped with a 7.5 Kwh lithium-ion battery costs approximately Rs 30 to fully charge, providing a mileage of around 75 kilometers per charge. Despite the clear difference in operational expenses, the lack of regulatory oversight has emboldened electric auto drivers to maintain parity with petrol fares. (GK)