Title - Kalyan station to get only-by-e-meter auto stand soon

Mumbai: Kalyan will get a dedicated stand outside the railway station for autorickshaws that will strictly ply by the e-meter, said an RTO source.

Though e-meter has been fitted on most autos in the region, they opt to ply by share system. There are five-six share auto stands outside the station. “At least one lane/stand will be dedicated for autos that will ply strictly by e-meter,” said deputy RTO V R Gujrathi. He said those who do not want to share the auto and hire it for themselves can do so at this stand.

The process for setting up the stand was initiated on Friday. A detailed discussion took place between Gujrathi and auto union leaders.

The RTO also plans to set up display boards, which will guide commuters from the station to the stand. “We will also have all the share auto stands with boards mentioning the route and fare. Today, there is a chaotic situation and any new comer to Kalyan will be confused which autos he or she should board. We will mention the e-meter plying auto stand in red bold letters,” he stated.

“RTO should not just target auto drivers. Citizens too are at fault. They are not disciplined,” said Kalyan auto union leader Santosh Navale, adding that the union will support RTO.

Gujarathi has provided his personal cellphone number so that people can call him directly to lodge complaints.- Somit Sen

The RTO had conducted surprise checks at the auto stands for past three days and prosecuted 25 errant drivers. “We also cleared the entire station area (main road) of unscrupulous auto drivers and removed some of the encroachment. It is looking better today,” he added.