STA warns of strict action against autorickshaws

There have been complaints to the State Transport Authority (STA) about autorickshaw drivers charging customers exorbitant rates and failing to use fare meters. According to Section 74(2)(viii) and Section 96(xx) of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, all autorickshaws must have operational fare meters. The STA has reminded the public and autorickshaw operators of this need.

The STA has directed drivers to get their fare meters calibrated and stamped by the Directorate of Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs in accordance with the updated autorickshaw prices for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, which were authorized by the Hon’ble Lt. Governor in a notification dated January 11, 2023. All autorickshaw owners are also required to have the STA-issued fare chart visible in their cars. The STA has made it clear that fares must be paid exactly as stated in the fare mlaer and that any overcharging, failure to operate an autorickshaw at a passenger’s request, or misbehavior toward a passenger will result in harsh consequences.

The STA has also affirmed that noncompliance will result in enforcement measures, such as penalties or permit suspensions, including those that operate defective or unstamped fee meters or fail to show the necessary fare chart. Any infractions, such as refusing to use the fare meter, overcharging, or refusing to give service, are encouraged to be reported by the public. The autorickshaw’s registration number and the specifics of the problem should be sent with complaints to the Secretary of STA, Directorate of Transport, Sri Vijaya Puram.