In an effort to address the growing issue of overcharging and autorickshaws operating without meters, the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) in Thiruvananthapuram has introduced a new initiative aimed at protecting passengers. The department has decided to implement a system where a clear “No meter, no fare” sticker will be affixed to autorickshaws, signaling to passengers that they are not obligated to pay if the meter is not in use. This measure is set to be officially announced soon, with orders likely to be issued over the weekend.
The decision comes after the MVD and the police received numerous complaints from the public about autorickshaw drivers charging excessive fares and avoiding meter usage. To tackle this issue head-on, the MVD has chosen to make the use of meters a mandatory practice, with the stickers serving as a visible reminder of passengers’ rights. Despite this proactive approach, there are concerns about the real-world effectiveness of the plan. The key challenge will be ensuring that autorickshaw drivers and their associations are willing to comply with the new rule.
While the initiative has been positively received in principle, there remains a question about the enforcement and whether it will curb the longstanding problem of overcharging in the city.
