Delhi HC Orders Random Checks To Enforce Autorickshaw Fare Meters

The Delhi High Court on Saturday has addressed a Public Interest Litigation regarding the enforcement of fare meters in autorickshaws.

The court directed the Transport Department to promptly decide on the representation made by the petitioner.

During the hearing, the bench—led by Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela—emphasized the necessity of random ground-level checks to ensure that fares are charged according to the meters. The court highlighted the importance of adhering to fare regulations and consumer protection.

In its ruling, the bench ordered the Delhi government’s transport department to respond to the petitioner, Anand Mishra, within three weeks. The PIL called for the immediate enforcement of Rule 74 of the Delhi Motor Vehicle Rules, 1993, which mandates the installation of fare meters in both autorickshaws and taxis.

Mishra pointed out that fare meters have not been operational since 2018, and the authorities have failed to take corrective action to rectify this situation. He argued that the lack of functioning fare meters has led to inconsistent fare charges, harming commuters.

In January 2023, the Delhi government announced a fare hike for taxis and autorickshaws. A notification from the Transport Department on January 9 stated that operators of autorickshaws and black-and-yellow taxis in the National Capital Territory must implement the revised rates.

The court’s intervention underscores the ongoing issues related to transportation regulation in Delhi and highlights the need for effective enforcement measures to protect commuters’ rights. As the Transport Department prepares to address the petitioner’s concerns, there is a renewed focus on ensuring fair pricing in the city’s autorickshaw and taxi services.

With the three-week deadline set by the court, stakeholders are hopeful for swift action that will restore the functionality of fare meters and improve the overall transparency in transportation fares, ultimately benefiting the residents of Delhi.

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