Rs 100 for covering 500 m; Techies suffering from exorbitant auto fares near Kazhakkoottam

KULATHOOR: There are rising complaints about autorickshaws charging exorbitant fares from passengers near the Kazhakkoottam Technopark area. Even for shorter distances, the autorickshaws stationed near the technopark area charge hefty sums from passengers.

People who protested against this misconduct were heckled and threatened by auto drivers. Despite rising complaints, the motor vehicle department and the police are keeping a blind eye on the issue. The auto drivers in this area have made it impossible for techies to hire online auto services. There exists a law that demands the auto workers’ union raise a board showing the fare rate in the auto stand. No such rules are being followed near the Technopark auto stand.

As per the revised rates, the fare list should be displayed from the lowest fare of Rs.30 per one and a half km to Rs.397.50 for 26 km. The Motor vehicle department needs to step into action and solve the qualms of the passengers at the earliest.

Hiring an auto to cover just 500 m from Technopark would cost Rs 70 to 100. Autorickshaw drivers reasoned return charges for the slight hike in charges in this region. However, MVD officials say return charges should not be levied during the daytime. The government has directed all RTOs and Joint RTOs to ensure proper operation of meters and cancel the permits and licenses of those who fail to do so. A meeting of representatives of auto workers in Cyber ​​City will be convened soon to resolve the issue.