Auto unions demand increase in fare from RTA citing inflation

u00a0Auto unions on Wednesday demanded a substantial hike in fares for the first kilometre and an overall fare hike too in a meeting conducted by Regional Transport Authority (RTA). The RTA has however refused to hike auto fares and said that this decision will be taken next week after taking into consideration views of commuter representatives.

Point made: Autorickshaw unions on Wednesday demanded a substantial hike in fares for the first kilometre and an overall fare hike too in a meeting conducted by Regional Transport Authority

Nitin Pawar, convener of Rickshaw Panchayat, said, "During the RTA meeting we were asked to accept three new conditions before deciding upon the fare hike. Those conditions included reduction in fares at night, scrapping autos over 16-years-old and electronic meter calibration within 45 days. According to our information, these conditions are either invalid for Pune city jurisdiction or applicable only in Mumbai city limits."

"Presently for the first kilometre a rupee extra charge is applicable as compared to increase in subsequent increase in distance. Considering high inflation, RTA should give a substantial hike in fares for the first kilometre and also an overall fare hike," Pawar said. Member of RTA and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Vishwas Pandhare said, "The decision on a fare hike was postponed today. We will take into consideration the opinion of commuters' groups and then arrive at a conclusion next week."