Is there any transport authority in place to fix rates for auto drivers? We often see a dedicated squad cracking down on food and eatable prices during the month of Ramadan, ensuring vendors don’t exploit consumers. Yet, when it comes to auto rickshaws, there’s a glaring lack of regulation. Drivers operate with unchecked freedom, charging whatever they please—Rs. 50 for a mere 0-1 km distance and escalating fares at their whim thereafter. This arbitrary pricing leaves commuters at the mercy of drivers, with no standard to hold them accountable.
The focus on food regulation during Ramadan is commendable, but why does it stop there? Auto travel is a daily necessity for many, not a seasonal concern. The absence of a fixed fare structure allows exploitation to thrive, especially for those who rely on autos for short, essential trips. A ride that should cost a reasonable amount often turns into an overpriced ordeal, with no recourse for passengers to challenge the fare.
It’s high time transport authorities stepped up. A clear, enforceable rate system—based on distance or time—must be implemented and monitored year-round, not just during festive months. Commuters deserve transparency, consistency, and fairness in pricing, not a free-for-all that favors drivers over passengers. Regulate auto fares now.
