The Kerala High Court directive to the police on Monday to take action against unauthorised auto-rickshaw and taxi stands is expected to clear up space for pedestrians in the city.
The court also observed that a minimum of 1.5 metres beyond the tarred margin of roads should be set apart for pedestrians, throughout the State.
The direction is being viewed against the backdrop of the inaction by police, Motor Vehicles’ Department (MVD) and civic agencies in removing unscientifically located stands that obstruct the movement of vehicles and pedestrians.
Back in July 2012, the enforcement agencies prepared a list of 165 places where auto stands could be located. The list was to be finalised that month itself after verifying the proposed spots. The decision was taken at a joint meeting of police, MVD and trade union representatives convened by Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany. The unions too had drawn up a list of stands.
The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Board too had decided a few months ago to finalise a list of autorickshaw stands and the parking capacity of each stand. The MVD, traffic police, Kochi Corporation, the PWD and town planners had together identified roads that have a width of seven metres or more where stands can be permitted.
Pressure by trade unions has hamstrung the process. At many junctions and narrow roads, passenger and goods autos are parked on the two sides of most roads, choking free flow of traffic.
The Deputy Transport Commissioner (Ernakulam) P. A. Sainudeen said areas had been identified to locate the stands. “Local bodies must help by allotting land for the purpose so that the MVD and police can begin removing illegal stands. At many places, illegal auto stands obstruct traffic. They have a fallout on law and order as well.”
