Despite repeated directives, auto-rickshaws in Srinagar continue to flout meter norms

Srinagar, Jan 28: Despite repeated directives and stern warnings from authorities, many auto-rickshaw drivers in Srinagar continue to operate without fare meters, leaving passengers frustrated with arbitrary charges. The issue, which has persisted for years, highlights the gap between policy implementation and ground-level compliance.
Authorities first mandated the installation of fare meters in 2016 to ensure transparent and fair pricing for passengers. On January 18, Jammu and Kashmir Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan reiterated the regulation, stating that meters are mandatory for all auto-rickshaws in the region. Mahajan warned that strict action would be taken against drivers found overcharging or operating without proper permits.
This directive came on the heels of a stern warning issued earlier by the Srinagar Traffic Police, which had set December 10 as the deadline for auto-rickshaw operators to install fare meters. A 10-day grace period was also granted to address concerns about the impact on drivers’ livelihoods. However, despite these efforts, compliance remains low, with violations still rampant across the city.
Passengers have expressed growing frustration over the lack of regulation. Tariq Ahmad, a commuter, said, “I paid Rs 250 for a short ride that should have cost half as much. Without fare meters, there’s no way to challenge the drivers.” Another passenger, Mudasir Shah, voiced similar concerns, saying, “For just a few kilometers, drivers charge exorbitant amounts. We are left with no choice but to pay.”
Muzaffar Shah, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Traffic, highlighted the challenges in enforcement, stating, “The department is actively working to enforce the rules. However, a key challenge is that auto drivers often raise concerns about unfair rates. We have engaged with RTO Kashmir on this matter, but addressing this issue continues to complicate enforcement efforts.”
Auto-rickshaw drivers, meanwhile, argue that rising operational costs make compliance difficult. “Fuel prices have surged, and the current fare structure is not viable. Installing meters only adds to our burden,” said Fayaz Ahmed, a driver. The Kashmir Auto Rickshaw Drivers Association has repeatedly called for fare revisions to reflect current economic realities.
However, Qazi Irfan, Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, countered these arguments, saying, “While fuel costs have risen, they do not justify the failure to install meters. We also have not received any formal request to revise the rates. Once we do, we will establish a committee and take the necessary steps.”
The problem persists despite repeated enforcement drives by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir and the Srinagar Traffic Police. While fines and warnings have been issued, many auto drivers continue to operate without meters, undermining efforts to ensure transparent and fair pricing.
Passengers and transport authorities are now calling for stricter measures to curb non-compliance. Some commuters have suggested impounding vehicles that violate the meter rule, while others demand increased on-ground monitoring by enforcement agencies.
Until authorities take stricter action or revise fare structures to address both passenger and driver concerns, Srinagar’s commuters will continue to struggle with unpredictable fares, and the issue of meter-less auto-rickshaws will remain unresolved.