Ahmedabad Auto Rickshaw Drivers Ignore New Fare Meters

From March 2024, Ahmedabad’s Transport Department mandated the installation of new ‘flag meters’ in all auto rickshaws across the city’s 48 wards. This policy aims to standardise fare calculation based on distance travelled, benefiting daily commuters and visitors by ensuring transparent pricing. However, despite the regulation coming into force on March 1, 2024, a significant number of drivers continue to operate with the meters switched off, undermining the policy’s intent.

5 Key Provisions of the New Auto Rickshaw Fare Meter Policy

The Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service (AMTS), under the Gujarat State Transport Department, issued Gazette Notification No. 12/2024 dated February 15, 2024, detailing the following requirements:

1. Mandatory Installation: All autorickshaws must have a certified flag meter installed on the left side of the driver’s seat. The meter must be calibrated and sealed by authorised officials.
2. Fare Structure: The fare must start with a fixed flag drop charge of ₹25 for the first 1.5 kilometres, followed by ₹12 per additional kilometre.
3. Operational Use: Drivers are required to switch on the meter at the start of each trip and keep it running until the passenger reaches their destination.
4. Penalties: Non-compliance will result in fines up to ₹5,000 and suspension of permits, as per Section 66 of the Motor Vehicles Act, enforced by the Ahmedabad Traffic Police.
5. Passenger Rights: Passengers have the right to refuse rides from drivers who do not use or tamper with the meter. Complaints can be registered via the AMTS helpline 079-2292-2233 or through the Transport Department’s online portal.

3 Groups Most Affected by the New Fare Meter Rule

Auto Rickshaw Drivers: Nearly 60,000 registered auto drivers in Ahmedabad must invest in and maintain the flag meter devices. Drivers operating in busy commercial areas like Maninagar and Vastrapur report resistance due to passenger preference for negotiated fares.

Passengers and Daily Commuters: Over 1 million daily users rely on auto rickshaws for short-distance travel. The policy aims to protect them from arbitrary fare hikes, especially in upscale neighborhoods where fares can double without meter use.

Transport Enforcement Agencies: The Ahmedabad Traffic Police and AMTS are responsible for monitoring compliance. They face logistical challenges in conducting regular spot checks across sprawling urban and suburban zones like Bopal and Chandkheda.

4 Reasons Behind Implementing the Fare Meter Policy

The Gujarat State Transport Department outlined the following objectives for the new rule:

• Ensuring Fare Transparency: To eliminate fare disputes and prevent overcharging, especially for tourists and vulnerable passengers.
• Standardising Pricing: To create a uniform fare system across all 48 Ahmedabad wards, replacing the inconsistent negotiated fares prevalent in many localities.
• Improving Passenger Safety: By enforcing meter use, anonymous fare hikes by unscrupulous drivers can be curtailed, reducing passenger anxiety.
• Modernising Transport Infrastructure: The move aligns with Gujarat’s broader Smart City initiatives encouraging digitised and accountable urban services.

6 Points of View from Drivers, Passengers, and Officials

Drivers’ Concerns: Many drivers, particularly from Maninagar and Satellite areas, express that passengers often prefer bargaining, saying “Passengers are not willing to pay the meter fare, so we switch it off to avoid disputes.” Some cite lack of awareness about the new rules.

Passengers’ Frustrations: Commuters report confusion and distrust, with some sharing experiences of drivers refusing to switch on meters or demanding higher fares upfront. This has led to complaints filed with AMTS and local police.

Officials’ Stance: Transport Commissioner Mr. Ramesh Patel stated, “We acknowledge teething problems but are committed to strict enforcement. Awareness campaigns are ongoing, and violators will face strict penalties.” The department plans coordinated drives with Ahmedabad Traffic Police from July 2024 to clamp down on meter violations.

5 Practical Tips for Ahmedabad Auto Rickshaw Passengers

1. Always insist on meter use: Before boarding, ask the driver to switch on the flag meter and verify that it is functioning.
2. Know the fare structure: The initial ₹25 for 1.5 km, then ₹12 per km, is standard. Use this to estimate expected costs.
3. Report violations: Use AMTS helpline or official apps to lodge complaints against drivers who refuse to comply.
4. Use ride-hailing apps: Where possible, use services like Ola or Uber, which have fixed rates and meter integration.
5. Stay informed: Follow updates from Ahmedabad Traffic Police and Gujarat State Transport Department websites for latest enforcement news.

Ahmedabad’s residents and visitors can expect improved fare transparency if compliance increases. Meanwhile, the government’s monitoring and enforcement efforts will determine how quickly the new system gains acceptance.

For related developments on auto rickshaw operations and safety, readers can refer to Ahmedabad Auto Rickshaw Drivers Strike Causes Chaos and Accident Involving BRTS Bus and Rickshaw in Ahmedabad.

Next Steps for Passengers:

• Check for functioning flag meters before starting any auto rickshaw ride.
• Familiarise yourself with the official fare rates published by AMTS.
• Report any non-compliance immediately to help authorities enforce the rule effectively.