Pune: In response to frequent complaints about auto rickshaw drivers charging excessive fares from passengers at Pune Railway Station, a new prepaid auto rickshaw service, 'Rickshamitra,' has been launched to curb this issue. The service, which started on July 27, aims to prevent passenger exploitation and ensure fair fares.

The prepaid auto rickshaw booth at the railway station was previously operational during the COVID-19 pandemic but was closed once the situation improved.

However, since its closure, complaints of overcharging by auto rickshaw drivers have persisted. Now, after four years, the booth has been reopened with the cooperation of the railway administration, traffic police, regional transport office (RTO), Pune Municipal Corporation, and auto rickshaw organizations.

Rickshamitra will operate from the old prepaid booth, where registered auto rickshaw drivers will charge fares based on the meter. The service also includes safety features for female passengers, allowing them and their relatives to track the travel route via mobile.

The inauguration of Rickshamitra was attended by Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil. Dr. Keshav Kshirsagar, President of the 'Baghtoy Rickshawwala Forum,' highlighted the service's benefits.

The prepaid auto rickshaw service works as follows:

• Passengers inform the booth of their destination.

• The booth staff calculates the fare based on the meter.

• Passengers receive a receipt for the fare.

• Upon reaching the destination, passengers pay the fare to the driver.

• The route can be tracked by both the booth staff and the passenger.

• Passengers' relatives can also track the route online.

Incentives for auto rickshaw drivers were also announced, including free booth services, two free uniforms, monthly CNG coupons worth Rs. 1,000, and discounted spare parts. Additionally, drivers and their families will receive free monthly dental check-ups, eye examinations and glasses, blood tests, and X-rays.