In an attempt at reforming autorickshaw drivers in the city, a few of the unions will soon be holding campaigns at important public spots.
The unions plan to ask drivers to ply by the meter, wear the uniform, follow transport rules, and carry all necessary documents.
The first campaign will be held at Chennai Central on Wednesday, followed by Egmore railway station, Koyambedu market and shopping malls, among other places. Transport department officials and traffic police officers are also expected to take part in the events.
“It is not right to start punishing the drivers. We have to first educate them about the importance of plying by the meter and following transport department norms,” said J. Seshasayanam, general secretary of the Madras Metro Auto Drivers Association.
Even as the unions are attempting to change the attitude of drivers, the transport department and the police have checked over 16,285 autorickshaws from November 17 to 22. A total of 1,620 vehicles have been fined and 910 have been detained. “On Saturday and Sunday, there was no enforcement. But, passengers can inform the police if they are fleeced,” said a senior police officer.
Passengers have, however, raised questions on the lack of surprise checks at Chennai Central and Egmore railway stations. “Passengers from other states who arrive in the city are taken for a ride. The police and transport officials are silent despite knowing about it,” said Geetha Subramanian, a railway employee.
Residents complain that fleecing by drivers is more rampant in areas beyond Guindy. “Most of the autorickshaw drivers in Tambaram, Pallavaram, Chromepet and the surrounding areas do not ply by the meter. For a distance of four kilometres, they charge over Rs. 100,” says T. Chari, a resident of Selaiyur.
Some passengers are willing to pay more in case of fuel price fluctuations. “For example, if the price hike is up to Rs. 5, then the passenger can pay 50 paise extra per kilometre, and Re. 1 if it a maximum of Rs. 10. The same can be reduced if the prices plummet,” said Subburaman Mothilal, a regular commuter.
