Imkong Walling
Passenger transport fare has remained a contentious issue in Dimapur as far back as one can remember. The controversy has largely pivoted around autorickshaw fare and alleged quoting of higher than normal prices.
Tariff regulation exists, but on the road, transporters justify charging over and above the recommended rate, blaming it on rising fuel price or poor road conditions, to the disappointment of the commuting public. For the majority without personal transport, it is either comply or walk, or worse, argue, and sometimes fisticuffs.
There are exceptions, but the impunity with which drivers impose opportunistic fare hikes at the slightest change in road rules and fluctuation in fuel price is also undeniable.
It happened during the COVID-19 pandemic when differing rates were charged, exceeding the recommended rate. As part of the preventive health measures imposed on public transport, a government directive had put a cap on autorickshaw passenger-seating capacity, in September 2020, allowing only one passenger per 3-seater and not more than two per 6-seater. To compensate for reduced earnings of the drivers, the Regional Transport Authority had suspended the pre-existing tariff, temporarily revising and doubling the fare, in all routes. However, the enhanced rate was largely ignored and passengers continued to be overcharged.
A similar trend is today playing out in Dimapur. This time, an old road overbridge, shut off for a major repair, happens to be the culprit. A result of clear governmental neglect, spanning over 50 years, the closure of the overbridge for three months has had the police implementing one-ways in previously two-way routes exacerbating jams on already saturated roads.
Autorickshaws apparently are the hardest hit, and allegedly compelled to unofficially hike fares, according to the president of the local autorickshaw drivers’ forum. He had recently acknowledged of individual drivers charging fare above the recommended rate, albeit, on their own accord.
He was also quick to justify, stating that the drivers are shelling out extra money on fuel, as a result of taking longer detours and spending longer time in traffic snarls. According to him, it has translated into a higher ‘Town trip’ fare, exceeding the prevailing Rs 50.
The justification earned them the benefit of doubt but also drew attention to a loosely used term. Town trip, while it appears clear enough, is not well defined. Is there a quantified number or spatial limit to it? From where to which point can be considered town trip? The autorickshaw drivers’ union in consultation with the concerned authorities must attach a proper definition to this vague term.
While a laissez faire approach to economy is often beneficial, certain situations necessitate government oversight to protect the public interest.
The writer is a Principal Correspondent at The Morung Express. Comments can be sent to imkongwalls@gmail.com
