Auto drivers at Vashi hike fare, continue flouting rules

VASHI: Commuters travelling in share autorickshaws near Vashi station are irked with the irregularities with which the rickshaws are plying. Many commuters have complained that the share auto drivers do not follow the rules and create traffic chaos.

A majority of the autos do not park their vehicles on the stand and this creates traffic problems in the peak hours in the area.

“The auto drivers are not following the rules and regulations and haphazardly park their vehicles, blocking the space and inconveniencing commuters entering or exiting stations,” said Vrinda Mhatre, 32, Vashi resident.

The share autos that ply on the Vashi-Kopar Khairane route increased their fare by Rs5 two months ago, which was approved by the RTO after they were caught in a traffic drive for ferrying more than three passengers. Even after hiking the fare, autos do not seem to follow the rules and most of them can be seen plying four to five passengers.

“Autos squeezing in four to five passengers pose a risk to commuter’s lives. Passengers sharing the driver’s seat are at more risk. We often prefer paying more and taking a single auto,” said Vivek Prasad, 27, resident of Vashi.

Officials said they will soon conduct a special drive in the area. “We will fine drivers who do not follow rules and ply more passengers or charge more. We request commuters to complain on our helpline numbers,” said Sanjay Dhaygude, deputy regional transport officer of Vashi RTO.

HT Autorickshaws ply with more than three passengers.