Even though there are many complaints against auto drivers, the law-enforcement authorities are yet to take any strict action against them.
Although electronic fare meters have already been installed in 90 percent of auto auto-rickshaws but drivers of hardly five percent among these auto-rickshaws, use those fare meters.
Even today fares are charged from public as per the whims and fancies of the auto drivers. In case passengers insist to pay as per the fare meters, the auto drivers, usually dump them and look for other easy targets. Those who want to pay as per the fare-meters, usually find themselves standing at the middle of the road.
There should be helpline number for public so that whenever any auto driver refuses to carry passengers as per electronic fare meters, public can lodge complaint over phone and expect immediate action.
Though there are strict laws to tackle unruly auto drivers, officials at State Transport Authority (STA) are yet to get their act together.
There is a need to make use of auto fare meters mandatory in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Administration must also deal with erring auto drivers with Iron Hands.
In the existing system written complaint are only entertained and acted upon. But lodging a written complaint takes time, effort and visit to RTO which is not always possible specially when priority is reaching the destination. Therefore as suggested in the editorial, there should be dedicated telephone line for lodging complaints.
Second important thing is the contact details such as Registration No, owners name, phone number, driver name, Driving Licence Number etc should be written (with paint) inside the auto so that complaint could be launched in complete shape over phone. In case of an accident these information could come handy.