‘Autorickshaw zones, akin to bus stops, will come up in city soon’

Madurai sets up autorickshaw zones to regulate share autorickshaws & ensure commuter safety. Fines imposed for violations & loud audio systems.

To regulate share autorickshaws and maintain the commuter’s safety, autorickshaw zones would be set up in busy areas, said Traffic Deputy Commissioner of Police D. Kumar. 

Speaking at an awareness meeting for share autorickshaw drivers, organised by the Madurai city police here on Tuesday, he said that mistakes committed by a few autorickshaw drivers would create a bad impression on all the drivers and in turn public would be hesitant to use autorickshaw. 

Making note of the various violations on roads, Mr. Kumar pointed out that autorickshaw drivers had made a habit of stopping randomly on the road to board and deboard passengers which not only disturbs the traffic but also could lead to accidents. 

Also, drivers should make use of the autorickshaw zones that would be set up soon in some of the important areas in the city to board and deboard passengers, he said.  

A. Thirumalaikumar, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic, while speaking at the meeting, warned that the installation of loud audio systems and illuminating lights in autorickshaws would not be entertained and if continued, they would be fined.  

Further, he advised the drivers not to stick caste-related photos and words on the autos as it could provoke people.