TEAM HERALD
teamherald@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: The Transport department has proposed a point to point fare for the around 300 auto-rickshaws operating in the State, as a stop gap arrangement prior to introduction of meters.
There are a lot of complaints about arbitrary charging by rickshaws operators but though the government had promised meters, it has once again dithered, preferring not to bite the bullet and pander to the rickshaw lobby.
There are around 300 rickshaws operating in the state.
The auto-rickshaws which were charging Rs 18.75 per kilometer will now be allowed to charge Rs 20. But the hike is subject to the approval of the state government.
Addressing a press conference, Director Transport Arun Dessai said that the concept would be implemented on trial basis for six months. Desai said that in absence of the digital meters for the rickshaws, the operators will have to prepare a chart listing out rates from one destination to another.
“This chart, which would be displayed on the major rickshaw stands, would give a clear picture to commuters about fare,” he said.
At the same time, the STA has also proposed hike in fares of 6-wheeler auto-rickshaw. As per revised rates, the vehicle will charge Rs 20 for the first kms as against Rs 17 and Rs 15 for the subsequent kms. A 15 percent fare hike has also been granted to tourist buses.
Similarly, STA has accepted the night charges proposal of the yellow/black motorcycle operators (pilots). Desai said that pilots would be charging additional 25 percent night charges and 50 percent return fare if motorcycle goes beyond municipal areas.
“We have observed that there are several trains and buses that enter State late night and these people (pilots) provide services. The night charges are charged by yellow/black taxis and auto-rickshaws also,” he stated.
Desai said that the new rates would be applicable subject to government approval and from the day of notification.
