Chennai, September 20 (Daily Kiran) : The Tamil Nadu transport department has instructed district collectors to hold public consultation meetings on September 23 regarding proposed changes to auto rickshaw fares across the state. These meetings will include representatives from auto rickshaw unions, consumer organizations, passengers, and other stakeholders. Their feedback will be considered before finalizing the revised fare structure.
Currently, Tamil Nadu has approximately 346,000 registered auto rickshaws. The existing fare rates were set in 2013 and have remained unchanged despite repeated demands for revision from driver unions. Under the current structure, passengers are charged ₹25 for the first 1.8 kilometers and ₹12 for each additional kilometer.
Auto rickshaw unions argue that rising fuel costs, along with increases in maintenance, insurance, parts, and other essential expenses, have rendered the current rates unviable. They are advocating for an increase in the minimum fare to ₹45 and a charge of ₹20 for each additional kilometer thereafter.
The office of the transport commissioner has asked district administrations to consult with consumer groups and other stakeholders before submitting their recommendations. This process aims to create a fare structure that protects drivers’ livelihoods while not imposing an undue financial burden on passengers.
Sadagopan, president of the Tamil Nadu Progressive Consumer Centre, urged the government to expedite the consultation process and announce the revised fares soon. He emphasized the importance of timely decisions, particularly with the upcoming Ayudha Puja and Diwali festivals likely to increase passenger demand.
Supporting the unions’ demands, Sadagopan proposed a minimum fare of ₹45 and an additional charge of ₹20 per kilometer. He also called for stringent regulatory measures to ensure transparency and prevent disputes between passengers and drivers. Furthermore, he urged the government to mandate digital fare meters and GPS in all auto rickshaws. These measures would help ensure accurate fare calculations, enhance passenger safety, and enable authorities to monitor compliance.
Before announcing any decisions, the government is expected to review the suggestions gathered during the district-level meetings. This fare revision will impact millions of passengers and drivers who rely on auto rickshaws for their daily commutes and livelihoods.
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