TEAM HERALD
BELGAUM: After receiving several complaints from commuters from Goa regarding the exorbitant fares by local rickshaw drivers, authorities in Belgaum have decided to implement the meter system in local rickshaws.
A large number of commuters from Goa arrive in Belgaum by train or bus and are dependent on local rickshaws for their local conveyance. However, rickshaw drivers do not have any parameters fixed for rentals and have been fleecing the Goan visitors, taking advantage of language barriers.
“Though the distance between the Central Bus Stand or Belgaum railway station is not more than 2 kms, we have to shell out almost double the amount every time,” remarked Shantu D’Costa from Vasco, a frequent visitor to Belgaum.
Though the Belgaum district administration and RTO authorities had failed in taming the arrogant and unruly rickshaw drivers in July last year, they have expressed confidence of addressing the problem immediately.
Responding to a question at a press conference here, Umashankar B P, Assistant Commissioner of the Regional Transport Department, said that the matter will be taken up seriously.
“All the technical and political aspects on the issue will be dealt with and auto rickshaw owners will be asked to commence operating with proper meters,” he said, adding that the department would appoint 10 RTO inspectors to implement the regulations.
It may be recalled that the fare for auto rickshaws was fixed at Rs 20 for the first two kilometers and Rs 9 for every additional kilometre.
Directing RTO authorities to ensure that all auto rickshaws use meters, DC N Jairam had issued orders to the RTO officials to seize auto rickshaws running without valid meter and permits.
However, the exercise failed miserably as the auto rickshaw drivers cleverly cited technical problems and while seeking political interference, managed to defy the authorities, thereby dashing the hopes of the visitors to Belgaum.
“We have been receiving several complaints, especially from Goan commuters, and there were attempts earlier to implement fare as per meter. However, the auto rickshaw cited one excuse or the other to prolong the implementation of the meters. The matter will now be taken up on priority,” RTO Hemadri told Herald.
