By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: In Patna, the district transport authorities have implemented a new colour-coded system for auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws (totos) to streamline traffic and reduce congestion. Under this initiative by the Patna District Transport Office, specific colours and routes have been assigned to auto-rickshaws and totos based on the area of operation, with Patna Junction and the GPO serving as central points.
Green-coloured autos and totos will operate in the eastern and northern parts of the city, yellow in the western and northern areas, and blue in the western and southern sectors. For routes west of Patna Junction, including Boring Road, Atal Path, Digha, Rupaspur, Saguna Mor, and Danapur, yellow autos will be required.
The decision, in line with the Motor Vehicles Act, aims to ensure safer operations and alleviate the frequent traffic jams caused by these vehicles. According to the District Transport Office, autos and totos will carry coloured stickers on display at district headquarters, helping residents to easily recognise designated vehicles for their routes.
The city has been divided into three main zones, each with a distinct colour scheme to facilitate easy navigation for the public. Additional District Transport Officer (DTO) Pinku Kumar shared with the media that routes for 13 urban areas have been decided across three zones, with unique colours assigned for easy identification and commuting convenience.
The transport office is also set to begin issuing new permits for autos and totos, a process that had been paused for several years. This will be based on seating capacity and passenger demand along each route. Auto and e-rickshaw drivers’ unions, which had been campaigning for months for the issuance of permits, welcomed the move to restart the process.
