Pune: Prepaid Auto Rickshaw Service Resumes at Pune Railway Station, Benefits Over 18,000 Passengers

Pune, 16th December 2024: The prepaid auto rickshaw service at Pune Railway Station has been relaunched after a three-month hiatus, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from passengers. Since its resumption, the service has facilitated over 18,000 passengers, generating transactions worth more than ₹31 lakh.

The facility, halted temporarily in July 2024 due to irregularities in the Passenger Service Association’s documentation and the termination of its agreement, is now back with improved systems and regulations. A dedicated prepaid auto rickshaw center has been established on the left side of the station’s main entrance, with 1,249 rickshaw drivers already registered under the service.

The prepaid system provides passengers with fixed fares and seamless online payment options for scheduled routes, addressing key concerns such as fare disputes, overcharging, and unauthorized operations by illegal rickshaw drivers. The Pune Regional Transport Department (RTO) has confirmed that the revamped process has significantly reduced passenger grievances and enhanced safety, particularly benefiting women and senior citizens.

Fare Structure and Guidelines
Deputy RTO Swapnil Bhosale explained that the service operates under guidelines set by the Khatua Committee. Passengers are charged a 10% premium above regular fares for trips up to five kilometers and a 15% premium for distances exceeding that limit. These rates were devised under the supervision of a multi-departmental committee comprising representatives from the RTO, Pune City Traffic Police, Railway Administration, and Pune Municipal Corporation.

Safety and Passenger Benefits
The prepaid auto rickshaw service has proven instrumental in curbing illegal operations, reducing passenger disputes, and ensuring transparent fare structures. The safety and convenience provided by the service have particularly benefitted vulnerable groups such as women and senior citizens.

Keshav Kshirsagar, President of the Indian Gig Workers Forum, stated, “The suspension of the service earlier this year was due to documentation issues and the termination of the Passenger Service Association’s agreement. Now, with all processes completed, the resumed service is benefiting both passengers and rickshaw drivers.”

Highlights of the Prepaid Auto Rickshaw Facility

• Fixed fares: Eliminates overcharging and fare disputes.
• Online payment: Ensures seamless and transparent transactions.
• Safety: A reliable option for women and senior citizens.
• Regulation of operations: Reduces the presence of unauthorized rickshaw drivers.

With the reintroduction of this system, passengers at Pune Railway Station can now enjoy safer, regulated, and hassle-free commuting options.