State permit for autorickshaws

The decision taken by the State Transport Authority (STA) to grant state permits to autorickshaws has sparked a major controversy. Given that nothing has ever been implemented in the state without controversy and opposition, it's not surprising that the auto issue is also facing the same fate. The ruling front's CITU union had initially proposed unrestricted statewide operations for autorickshaws, with the Madayi unit in Kannur submitting this demand at the Nava Kerala Sadas. However, in a surprising turn of events, the same union is now against the idea, despite the STA's supportive stance. The union leadership's final stance on the matter has not been made public yet.

People are waiting to see what the government's stand will be in the face of opposition against the STA's decision. There are arguments opposing and favouring the STA's decision. Transport Minister Ganesh Kumar is adamant that he will do whatever it takes to implement the state permit. The minister believes that allowing autorickshaws to operate statewide will be beneficial for both drivers and passengers. Autorickshaw owners and workers are generally not against the idea of ​​a state permit. Currently, drivers face restrictions even when travelling to adjacent districts and risk facing hefty fines if caught violating the rules. They have been demanding permission to operate in nearby districts for a long time.

Since no study has been conducted on the issue, it would be appropriate to appoint an expert committee as soon as possible and make arrangements for it. Such a study is necessary for any new change. The driving test reform measures had led to a dispute between the minister and the unions. Hence, efforts should be made to prevent the auto permit issue from going down the same path. The primary concern about issuing state permits to autorickshaws is that it will lead to more accidents, but this concern is baseless. Autorickshaws are already plying on all roads in their districts without any limitations. While it's argued that autorickshaws are not designed for long-distance travel, it's crucial to acknowledge that many autorickshaws operate non-stop throughout the day within the district.

Even if autos are given state permits, only a few people will opt for autos for long-distance travel. The main change will be the removal of stringent restrictions on inter-district travel. This will be highly beneficial for those near district borders. Ultimately, laws and regulations are made for the benefit of the people. Any decision that helps them is good. It will also receive people's support. Autorickshaw services, despite being heavily regulated, are marred by various problems when viewed from the passenger's standpoint. The primary focus should be on finding solutions to these problems. It's important to note that not all individuals operating in this sector are troublemakers. Only a minority is engaging in rule-breaking behaviour.

It's a major drawback that the state's roads lack exclusive lanes for small vehicles like autorickshaws. Elsewhere, small vehicles are banned on expressways. This deficiency persists even as the state expands its national highways to six lanes.