By Neeraj Kumar
Patna: The old permits of auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws in Patna are set to be cancelled, with new permits issued in limited numbers for their operation. A meeting chaired by Divisional Commissioner Mayank Warwade on Friday finalised this decision. Moving forward, auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws in Patna will operate strictly according to designated routes and zones.
To implement this, the District Transport Officer has been directed to publish advertisements in newspapers to inform drivers about the new system. Additionally, applications will be invited from drivers, and permits will be reissued within a specified limit.
New Permits to Be Issued Based on Routes and Zones
Currently, around 14,000 auto-rickshaws are operating under old permits issued in 2014. Under the revised plan, the District Transport Officer will work in coordination with representatives of auto and e-rickshaw unions to regulate operations in both urban and rural areas on a subdivision basis. The administration has already initiated preparations to cancel existing permits and introduce new ones. These permits will be allocated according to specific routes and zones to streamline operations.
Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Union Threatens Strike
The Patna District Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union has expressed strong opposition to the new system. The union president stated, “We will oppose the route and zone-based operation of auto-rickshaws. The district administration, District Transport Officer, and Traffic SP have not engaged in discussions with the union regarding these changes. If the concerns of drivers are not addressed, we will resort to a strike.”
The district administration is yet to respond to the union’s warning, but the decision marks a significant step towards regulating the operation of public transport in Patna.
