Morung Express News
Dimapur | August 20
Public transport plays a very important role in the society. Everyday thousands of people in Dimapur rely on public transport to take them to school, work or for shopping. Low income groups are mainly dependent on the ‘autorickshaw’ for mobility. The importance of public transport has become inevitable for many people. However, it is observed that the public transport providers have ceased to be a public welfare utility, and rather, a money extracting device.
Ever since the government implemented ‘fixed auto fares’ in Dimapur, there has been a hullabaloo among the service providers. The Auto Drivers’ Union initially argued that the fixed rates did not tally with the rising prices of fuel and essential commodities, prompting the administration to restructure fares. The present fares were implemented after much deliberation. On this note, it looked the public were finally paying the right price. But it seems there are still many unscrupulous autorickshaw drivers lurking around charging uncalled prices. And without any form of mechanism to check the erring drivers, the public quietly relent because of the crucial need to use the transport system.
It was reported earlier that autos in Dimapur would start using electronic fare meter from August 3 onwards but this has not happened yet, and why is anybody’s guess. The Auto Drivers’ Union informed that owners of the vehicle do not want to install the fare meter. The union has already approved the government’s order to install fare meter but the opposition from service providers has stalled the order. The union is in favour of using the device – perhaps on a trial basis. But with stiff opposition within its own camp, it is unlikely such a mechanism will be in place anytime soon.
Excessive rates charged by some auto drivers have also caused much public resentment. Auto drivers tend to take advantage of the pathetic road conditions in Dimapur and charge the public extra. Many people are complaining of the soaring hire rates. Without the government’s initiative to provide an alternative transport facility, the public of Dimapur will continue to suffer at the hands of a few unscrupulous people.
