Bangalore Autos: Should RTA approve fare hike?

http://www.hindu.com/2008... Autorickshaw passengers may have to dig deeper into their pockets soon. For, the Road Transport Authority (RTA) is likely to take a decision on increasing the auto fares on Wednesday(Jan 30,2008). Deputy Commissioner of Bangalore Urban and RTA Chairman M.A. Sadiq told The Hindu that a decision is likely to be taken on Wednesday after the sub-committee set up to look into the matter submits its report. The likely increase in the fare comes in the light of autorikshaw drivers and owners, who had taken their vehicles off the road on January 11, seeking a raise in the minimum fare. When asked about the likely fare increase, Mr. Sadiq said: “I will be in a position to comment on the fare only on Wednesday as a decision has not been taken in this regard. The meeting will review the recommendation of the sub-committee.” The State Government has delegated the powers to revise the auto tariffs to the regional transport authorities in the respective districts. With respect to Bangalore, the RTA Bangalore district has been empowered to revise the auto tariff. Sub-committee report DCP (Traffic-East) Seemanth Kumar Singh, who is heading the sub-committee, said that the process was still on and the committee was yet to give the report to the RTA. He said: “We are working out on the details from the technical point of view and variables laid down in the guidelines are being considered.” The sub-committee would submit the report in two days time, he added. It is learnt that there are about 20 variables including the fuel cost, wear and tear of the vehicle, insurance, permits and tax structures that are considered before deciding on fare increase. Union confident Meanwhile, general secretary of Sri Jai Bhuvaneshwari Auto and Taxi Driver’s Union C.T. Lokesh told presspersons on Monday that they were confident that the RTA would meet the demands of the union. Unions have been demanding the minimum fare to be raised to Rs. 15 from Rs. 12 at present, and Rs. 7.5 for every kilometre thereafter.