Prepaid Auto Rickshaw Service Resumes at Pune Railway Station, Benefits Over 18,000 Passengers
Pune, 16th December 2024: The prepaid auto rickshaw service at Pune Railway Station has been relaunched after a three-month hiatus, receiving an enthusiastic response from passengers. Since its reintroduction, over 18,000 passengers have availed themselves of the service, resulting in transactions exceeding ₹31 lakh.
The facility, which was temporarily halted in July 2024 due to the termination of the Passenger Service Association’s agreement and irregularities in members’ documentation, has now resumed with improved systems and regulations. A dedicated prepaid auto rickshaw center has been established on the left side of the station’s main entrance. So far, 1,249 rickshaw drivers have registered for the service, offering commuters fixed fares and seamless online payment options for scheduled routes.
The prepaid system has been instrumental in curbing passenger complaints and disputes, as well as incidents of fare overcharging by illegal rickshaw drivers. Pune’s Regional Transport Department (RTO) confirmed that the new process has effectively addressed previous grievances while ensuring safer and smoother travel for passengers, particularly women and senior citizens.
Deputy RTO Swapnil Bhosale explained, “As per the Khatua Committee’s guidelines, the system charges 10 percent above regular fares for distances up to five kilometers and 15 percent extra for longer distances. These rules, prepared under the guidance of a committee chaired by the Deputy Commissioner of Traffic Police and representatives from the RTO, Pune City Traffic Police, Railway Administration, and Pune Municipal Corporation, are now binding on all registered drivers.”
Before the reintroduction of the prepaid service, frequent complaints of overcharging and illegal operations by rickshaw drivers at the railway station prompted authorities to take action. A multi-departmental committee formulated strict norms for rickshaw drivers, ensuring compliance by Passenger Transport Association members.
Keshav Kshirsagar, President of the Indian Gig Workers Forum, said, “The service was halted due to documentation issues and the termination of the association’s agreement. Now that the required processes are complete, the Prepaid Auto Rickshaw facility has resumed operations, benefiting both passengers and drivers.”
Benefits of the Prepaid Auto Rickshaw Facility
Reduction in complaints and disputes: Fixed fares and advance online payments have eliminated fare-related arguments and incidents.
Curbing illegal operations: The system has significantly reduced the presence of unauthorized rickshaw drivers at the station.
Safety for vulnerable passengers: Women and senior citizens now have a safer and more reliable travel option.
Passenger-friendly rates: Transparent fare structures have stopped the exploitation of passengers by rogue drivers.
