Stung by the recalcitrance of many auto drivers, the Legal Metrology Department has decided to crack the whip on auto rickshaws that failed to recalibrate digital fare meters with the revised tariff.
Close to 37,000 auto rickshaws are plying without recalibrating the digital meters and are creating confusion among passengers. This is forcing many passengers to pay more as against the actual cost for the distance travelled.
Minimum price: Rs. 16
In its order issued two months ago, the State government has announced the revision of auto fares and made it clear that digital fare meters in all auto rickshaws should be recalibrated with minimum price as Rs.16 by November 22. For each subsequent kilometre travelled, the fare is increased by Rs.9. Arrangements were also made to recalibrate meters at 15 meter repair shops at Chilkalguda, Nampally, Bansilalpet, Sultan Shahi, Kamatipura and Jahanuma but most of them continue to ignore it, claimed officials.
Drivers warned
“Drivers have to recalibrate meters within the stipulated time and if anyone fails to do so, stern action will be taken against them,” warned City Assistant Controller, Legal Metrology, P.S.R.N.T Swamy, on Monday.
He said a meeting would be conducted with the senior traffic police and transport department officials shortly to chalk out an action plan for launching a special drive against errant drivers. “We will book cases against the drivers under Section 18/25 of A.P. Legal Metrology Act 2009 for failing to comply with norms and penalty will also be levied,” said Mr. Swamy.
