In a move to streamline the city’s autorickshaw services, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan announced that starting next month, all autorickshaws in Belagavi will be fitted with mandatory fare meters and citizens will have to pay by meter alone. The decision was discussed during the District Road Safety Committee and Regional Transport Office Authority meeting held at the DC’s office on Wednesday.
Deputy Commissioner Roshan emphasized the importance of coordinating with regional transport authorities, the police department, and the autorickshaw drivers’ association to ensure a smooth transition to metered fares. “A joint meeting should be convened to address the practicalities of implementing this change,” he suggested.
In addition to the meter mandate, the Deputy Commissioner also addressed concerns about the safety of schoolchildren. He warned that strict action would be taken against autorickshaw drivers who exceed the passenger limit, particularly those carrying more children than allowed. “The licenses of such drivers should be revoked,” Roshan stated, underscoring the need for safety in student transportation.
During the meeting, concerns about the increasing number of autorickshaws in the city were raised. Suspension of new autorickshaw registrations, citing oversaturation was also discussed. Deputy Commissioner Roshan acknowledged the concerns and assured that the matter would be examined and appropriate action would be taken soon.