2.autorickshaws study bangalore cistup

STUDY OF THE

AUTORICKSHAW SECTOR

IN BANGALORE CITY: Suggestions For Improved Governance

By: Ms. Fagun Rajkotia & Ms. Radha Chanchani , Urban PlannersCiSTUP

Role and Importance• Informal, Intermediate Public Transport (IPT) -

plug the gap between public & private transport

modes - availability, access, connectivity, flexibility

• Market/demand & IPT numbers increasing;

despite caps in various cities (including Blore)

• IPT modes Bangalore: mainly autos & taxies

2001-2011: growth 12-13% p.a. ; 4% of total

vehicular registrations

Bangalore Unique: despite high transit share, has very

high IPT index - 208 (Oct 2011), against avg. of 65

indicated by MoUD study

Need for Study - why is it important to look at autorickshaws?

City/Call Taxi Services Auto Services

• Fewer numbers

• Used more ‘on occasion’, when required to travel longer

distances, carry more passengers or luggage;

• Costlier

• Largely catering to more affluent society, visitors to city

• Greater numbers (> double of all taxies - 2011)

• Far greater demand, used on regular basis

• More economical than taxis (costing about 50% lesser)

• Used by much wider cross-sections of society

(middle/upper middle classes)

Organised fleet-based services, streamlined interface for all

legal formalities, more accountability

Unorganised independently-run services, multiple interfaces

for all legal formalities, lesser accountability

Autos: PRIMARY IPT MODE in Bangalore, important & integral part of its public passenger transportation systems,

popular form of travel for large cross-section of society

Vehicular Numbers & Modal Shares

• Explosive vehicular growth: 12 lakhs in 1998 to 32 lakhs in 2008; 10% p.a.

• 2006: Vehicle ownership 365/1000 population - highest motorised vehicles/capita with Delhi


Private vehicular numbers grew exponentially

Vehicle Operating Costs (2005-06) comparative

for PT/buses & 2-Ws; Autos & Cars

• 2008-2011: 2-wheelers 5.5% p.a. ; cars 12% p.a.

• Approx. daily vehicles added: 1000+

• Oct 2011: over 4 million registered

• Over 1 lakh autos cater to about 15 lakh trips/day

Autos, practically the 'last

line of defence' before

losing out to private modes.


• Significant public transport availability, autos play

more supplementary/complementary roles

effective low-cost mobility options help plug a gap, though

their share comparatively quite small in the city

Merits

Compared to high-capacity PT systems

• higher penetrability, manoeuvrability - greater

reach/access & flexibility in routing

• availability on-demand & reasonably fast -

lesser waiting/travel times

• convenient door-to-door or last-mile connectivity

• comfortable travel

• more economical than taxis

• fairly safe

• in private sector (‘for profit’ trade), but valuable

public transport service; sans government funding

& little if any subsidy!

Compared to private vehicles

• for same capital cost, more passenger volumes

• don’t hog as much precious parking space,

contribute lesser to traffic congestion & pollution

• though per capita emissions are higher, overall

contribution lesser

User Groups

Serve a wide cross-section of society across age,

gender, occupations, but largely from middle-high

income groups;

Particularly those deprived of personal mobility -

women, children, senior citizens, disabled

• provide employment/livelihood to low

income/EWS at relatively low investment cost


Perceived Demerits

• considered major sources of traffic congestion/chaos

in volumes, overall contribution lesser; partly issue of

lacking infrastructure (auto stands) & proper on-ground

monitoring/enforcement

• considered major sources of air, noise pollution

in volumes, overall contribution lesser; partly issue of

improving vehicle design/technology & enforcing better

maintenance

• considered unwanted 'competition' to formal PT

autos in fact play a vital supporting role; need to be

streamlined & incorporated into overall network in ways

that are complementing, not competing.

• concerns arising out of lack of accountability

partly issue of effective regulation, monitoring,

enforcement systems

• Despite significant role/merits, autos receive

scant attention in the urban transport debate!

• Play secondary role, neither owned nor

operated by govt. agencies & public money

not spent there - side-lined; interest elsewhere!

• Demerits - at times, result of skewed

perceptions or symptoms of other systemic

issues - lead to, perpetuate a negative image

• Authorities - disparaging attitude,

laws/regulations focus more on limiting/

discouraging them

• Practically no planning, little done to

integrate them into comprehensive picture

Crucial to acknowledge significant role/merits (as

primary para-transit mode), potential to up overall

share of PT

Of utmost importance to look at improvement of

auto services & integrate them with other PT

systems to arrest rapid & disturbing shift to private

modes. Would in turn help reduce traffic

congestion/chaos, air/noise pollution

Critical to not just treat ‘symptomatic problems’ but

identify & address ‘root or real’ issues as well!

• In the context, growing anger/frustration among public

users regarding service, matter of grave concern!

• But public experience/perception - one side of story!

Multiple players/stakeholders, multiple dimensions &

perspectives!Crucial for public at large to be informed of issues plaguing

the sector & bring them into focus while demanding for

improvement in services!

Framework for Study

• Little by way of in-depth research, consolidated

efforts in trying to effectively understand &

improve the autorickshaw sector.

• Study looks to narrow the gap, extend

knowledge base.

Objectives• present comprehensive & holistic understanding

of the ecology of the autorickshaw sector in Blore

• identify & assess key issues or areas for

improvement (systemic/specific levels)

• put forward some suggestions/recommendations

based on same

Larger Aims• raise awareness, highlight & bring real issues into

focus

• encourage greater dialogue among stakeholders

• inform policy & decision-making regarding

governance of the sector

Scope and Limitations• focus on ‘regular’ auto services; dynamics of

‘shared’ & ‘school’ auto services outside scope

• focus within earlier municipal corporation

limits; dynamics in outlying areas/satellite

townships not covered

• focus on governance & regulatory

environment, financing mechanisms, role of

'middlemen’, market & operational

characteristics, associated economics,

infrastructure, initiatives, stakeholder

roles/responsibilities etc; other socio-economic

aspects such as family/household & living

conditions of service providers, not covered

Framework for Study

Methodology• Quantitative-Qualitative

Research & Assessment

• Stakeholder

Surveys/Interviews conducted

August 2011- January 2012

• Random Sampling Method

Stakeholder Profiles - roles/responsibilities

Ecosystem of Autorickshaw Sector

• CMVA 1988, KMVR 1989 - main governing legislations

• AGENTS - ‘one-stop’ solution, help with all formal procedures for a fee!

• No formal platform for stakeholder dialogue/interaction, inter-departmental collaboration!

TECHNOLOGY 2-stroke Autos 4-stroke Autos

Machine Capacity 140 cc 200 cc

Air-Cooled Engine Oil + Air-Cooled Engine

Mileage 18-20 kms/lt (in the city) 20-22 kms/lt (in city)

Fuel Can run on adulterated fuel (petrol + kerosene) and crude oil

Runs only on LPG and requires good quality oil; far less polluting than 2-strokes

Maintenance/ Repair Costs (according to auto drivers survey)

Rs 30-35 for oil required daily – Rs 800-900/ month Rs 600 for oil change/ month @ every 5000 kms

Repairing/replacing the engine costs Rs 2000-3000 upto 5000; 2-strokes can run without battery also

Repairing/replacing engine costs about Rs 15,000 - company rate for fitting is Rs 40,000; the battery costs Rs 4000

Replacing brake lights costs Rs 50 Replacing brake lights costs Rs 400

Replacing front glass costs Rs 300 Replacing full front glass costs Rs 2000

Market Characteristics

Different Parties – Different Responses, based on

guesstimates, perceptions…

Lack of updated, accurate computerised records of

fleet composition, owners/drivers, etc

• No. of registered autos (March 2012): 1,13,785

• No. of issued auto cab permits (March 2012): 89,000

• Discrepancy: roughly 24,785 or 22% (illegal autos)

Why/How?

• Avg. service life of auto (CTTS): 10.5 years;

upto 15 years or more, if well-maintained.

• Main auto manufacturers in Blore: Bajaj & TVS

- all follow ARI norms

• 2005-2006: mandated shift to LPG

• Dec 2008: ban of 2-strokes in Blore

• Govt. conversion rules & subsidies - issues!

• 2-strokes : 4-strokes, roughly 50:50

• Mechanical : Electronic Meters, roughly 50:50

• LPG Autos, roughly 90-95%

Why are 2-strokes preferred? Perceptions…

Formal Licensing, Registration, Ratifying Procedures at RTO

• Governing laws & regulations, permit system & conditions - loopholes!

• Process, associated costs, time taken for: DL-Badge, Permits (DL/Transfer), Registration, FC, MC, PUC, etcComplicated, time-consuming procedures; lack of computerisation & automation; information/awareness,

transparency & accountability, making middlemen – indispensable!

FOUR STEP PROCESS TO OBTAIN AUTO CAB DRIVING LICENSE AND BADGE

Eligibility/Qualification Required Documents (along with related RTO application forms and passport photos)

Associated Cost

Time Taken Validity

STEP 1: LL (general) Any person wishing to obtain a Driving License (DL) has to first get a Learning License (LL) through a preliminary oral or written test

Age: Min. 18 years old Education: 10

th std/ SSLC pass or

above (Written Test) In case of others (Oral Test) Address: Applicant has to be a resident of the same jurisdiction/city

1. Age Proof (any one): School Certificate; Birth Certificate; PAN Card; Registered Medical Practitioner's Certificate; Self Swearing Affidavit 2. Address Proof - same jurisdiction (any

one): Passport; LIC Policy; Electoral Roll; Telephone/Electricity/Water Bill; Ration Card; Caste and Income Certificate issued by Tahsildar; Pay slip issued by Govt. Office; Self Swearing Affidavit 3. Declaration of Citizenship Status: Birth Certificate, School Certificate Voter ID

Rs 30 Passed applicants can collect LL same day at RTO Failed applicants can reappear next day onwards

6 months; throughout India

STEP 2: DL (general) Applicant can appear for a test of competence to drive, only after completion of 30 days from the date of issue of the LL

Same as in Step 1

1. Same as in Step 1 2. Valid LL (obtained via step 1) 3. Vehicle Documents: in which applicant

proposes to appear for driving test (registration, insurance, tax, PUC and FC in case of transport vehicle)

4. Medical Certificate, if applicant's age is 40 years and above

Rs 50 (Drive test) Rs 40 (DL Book) Or Rs. 215 (Smart Card)

Passed applicants can collect DL next day at RTO Or Within 8-10 days by post Failed applicants can reappear after 7 days

20 year period or 50 years of age; throughout India

STEP 3: LL (auto cab) Any person wishing to obtain an Auto Cab DL has to apply and retake a LL test 1 year after getting the general DL; 1-yr driving experience of 'light motor vehicle' required

Age: Min. 20 years old Education: Min. 10

th std/ SSCL pass

(Written Test) Min. 8

th std pass

(Oral Test) Address: Applicant has to be a resident of the same State; need not be from same jurisdiction/city

1. Same as in Step 1 2. Valid DL (obtained via step 2) 3. School Certificate 4. Medical Certificate, necessary in case of

transport vehicle

Rs 30 Passed applicants can collect LL same day at RTO Failed applicants can reappear next day onwards

6 months; throughout India

STEP 3: DL-Badge (auto cab) Applicant can appear for a test of competence to drive, only after completion of 30 days from the date of issue of the Auto Cab LL (step 3)

Same as in Step 3 Training: Auto rickshaw cab driving training required through a licensed Motor Driving School

1. Valid DL (obtained via step 2) 2. Valid Auto Cab LL (obtained via step 3) 3. Vehicle Documents: in which applicant

proposes to appear for driving test (registration, insurance, tax, PUC and FC in case of transport vehicle)

4. Driving Certificate issued by Training School 5. School Certificate 6. Medical Certificate, if applicant's age is 40

years and above

Rs 50 (Drive Test) Rs 30/50 (DL Book) Or Rs 215 (Smart Card) Rs 50 (Badge) Rs 150 (Medical Cert. if req.)

Passed applicants can collect DL next day at RTO Or Within 8-10 days by post Failed applicants can reappear after 7 days

3 years; Auto Cab DL throughout India, Badge throughout State

Rs 2500 (Tot. Through

Formal process to obtain DL permit

Formal Licensing, Registration, Ratifying Procedures at RTO

Purchase , Finance and Registration

Financing Mechanisms TYPICAL FIGURES ASSOCIATED WITH FINANCING A NEW AUTO RICKSHAW (costing Rs 1.47 lakhs)

BANKS PRIVATE FINANCIERS

Financial Agreement Hypothecation Act: money loaned to borrower,

who is the owner of the vehicle

Hire Purchase Act: Private financier funds purchase

and is owner till entire amount is paid off

Requirements –

documents, guarantee,

etc

All same except for:

- Applicant has to be a resident of the city

- Income-Expenditure Statement

- Must have Guarantor

- Account in same Bank

- Keep vehicle's original documents or attested

copies to be returned at end of loan period

All same except for:

- Preferred if applicant is a resident of the city; if

not a local resident is required as Guarantor

- All legal documents preferred, but not mandatory

- Guarantor is preferred, but not mandatory

- Any Bank Account

- Keep vehicle's original documents to be returned

at end of EMI period

Loan Passing Time 2 weeks to 2 months or more Usually 1-2 days

Down Payment Rs 30,000 - 37,000

(20-25%)

Say for Example:

Rs 37,000

Rs 40,000 - 50,000

(30-35%)

Say for Example:

Rs 37,000

Loan Amount Rs 1,10,000 – 1,17,000 lakhs Rs 1,10,000 Rs 97,000 – 1,07,000 lakhs Rs 1,10,000

Interest rate 13.5% - 15.5% ;

Reducing Balance

14% Reducing

Balance

15% - 24% or more;

Flat Rate

18% Flat Rate

EMI Approx. Rs 2800 Rs 2750 Approx. Rs 4000

Loan Repayment Period 60 months Rs - lakhs 36 months Rs 1.60 lakhs (total)

Non-Payment Period - Lower penalty/late fines

- Gives 3 (at times upto 6) months

- Have to go through legal procedures in court

before seizing vehicle

- Higher penalty/late fines

- Gives 2 (max. upto 3) months

- Being rightful owners, can seize/reposess vehicle

without court intervention

• Banks: 80-90% do not repay

• Private Financiers: 97-98% repay

• Why PF more successful in debt

recovery & preferred over banks?

- type of financial agreement: claim of

ownership & means of recovery

- bank wariness

- more formalities/safegourds

- uneducated/unaware

- time-consuming approval process

TYPICAL FIGURES ASSOCIATED WITH FINANCING AN OLDER, SECOND-HAND AUTO RICKSHAW

Passing Time If all required documents are in order and both parties come through a guarantor (usually agent),

approval of fund is almost immediate, within 1-2 days

Agreement Charges Rs 500-1000; however, official challan for financial agreement to be submitted at the RTO is Rs 100

Down Payment Usually not required

Loan Amount Rs 30,000 – Rs 40,000

Interest rate 2-3% flat interest or 3% on reducing balance, at times going upto 4-5%

EMI/Loan Repayment For eg: if loan amount is Rs 35,000

Flat interest of 3% = Rs 10,500

Total to be paid at end of EMI period: Rs 35,000 + Rs 7000 = Rs 45,500 / 15 months

Rs 2300 (capital) + Rs 700 (interest) = Rs 3000 for 15 months

Non-Payment Procedure A month's interest as late penalty charges; given upto 3 months of non-payment before seizing

Agreement Charges Rs 2500; however, official challan for termination of financial agreement to be submitted at the RTO

is Rs 100

Transfer Permit Costs Rs 850 officially at the RTO (See Chapter 5), but in reality it costs much more (See Chapter 7)

Non-formal Mechanisms - role of middlemen

• Agents/Brokers: invisible but almost indispensable; permeate the

system & 'help' applicants with all formal procedures - for a fee!

• Who Are They: any person familiar with trade/workings of system -

private agents, many seasoned auto drivers/owners & union

members, private financiers, most smaller auto sub-dealers, etc

• Why They Exist, Are Preferred: Convenient & Faster!

- have access to DL/Transfer Permits - only point-of-contact!

- can help arrange missing legal documents

- act as guarantor

- ‘experts’, take care of all complicated paperwork/formalities

- get work done faster through their networks & arrangements (bribes)

Non-formal Mechanisms - role of middlemen

THROUGH FORMAL SYSTEMS THROUGH AGENTS

DL Permit + Bank Finance 2 weeks to 2-3 months (or till bank approves loan) 1-2 weeks (or till bank approves loan)

DL Permit + Private Finance 1 week to 1 month (or till RTA grants permit) 1-2 weeks (or till RTA grants permit)

Transfer Permit + Bank Finance 2 weeks to 2-3 months (or till bank approves loan) 1-2 weeks (or till bank approves loan)

Transfer Permit + Private Finance 1 week or more 3-4 days

• Agents make Rs 8000-

12000 on DL Permit &

Rs 20000-35000 on

Transfer Permit cases

THROUGH FORMAL SYSTEMS

THROUGH MAIN AUTO DEALERS THROUGH AGENTS

New DL Permit

Transfer Permit

New DL Permit- TVS

New DL Permit- BAJAJ

New DL Permit

Transfer Permit

Average Cost of Auto (incl. Vehicle Cost + Basic Fittings + Rs 4920 Insurance + Rs 125 Temp. Registration)

Rs 1,40,000 Rs 1,40,000 Rs 1,40,000 Rs 1,40,000 Rs 1,40,000 Rs 1,40,000

Permanent Registration (incl. Rs 300 Registration + Rs 2750 Tax + Rs 200 Passing + Rs 100 Financial Agreement)

Rs 3,350 Rs 3,350 Rs 3,350 Rs 3,350 Rs 3,350 Rs 3,350

Permit (incl. Rs 130 Endorsement Letter + Rs 500 Permit Fee)

Rs 630 Rs 850 Rs 630 Rs 630 Included In Agent Fee

Included In Agent Fee

Agent Fee - - Rs 2000 Rs 4500 Rs 8,000 - 12,000

Rs 20,000-35,000

TOTAL COST Rs 1,43,980 Rs 1,44,200 Rs 1,45,980 Rs 1,48,480 Rs 1,51,350- Rs 1,55,350

Rs 1,63,350 - Rs 1,78,350

THROUGH FORMAL SYSTEM WITH AGENTS INVOLVEMENT

Vehicle Fitness Test Rs 200 Rs 600

Meter Calibration Test Rs 100 Rs 300

PUC/Emission Test Rs 50 Rs 50

TOTAL Rs 350 (1-3 days) Rs 950 (½-1 day)

Operating Characteristics and Associated Economics

• Avg. daily, monthly, yearly operating economics for 2-stroke/4-stroke auto owner/renter drivers in Blore

• Renters: per mh

Rs 8000-9000

• Owners: per mh

Rs 12000-13000

• 2-stroke renters

earned least; 4-

stroke owners most!

• Clues to why

private finance is

preferred...?

DAILY MONTHLY YEARLY TOTAL PER ANNUM

2-stroke

Renter Drivers

Rs 35

(oil)

Rs 875 (oil) + 50 (reg.

servicing/minor repairs)

Rs 10500 (oil) + Rs 600 (servicing/minor

repairs) Rs 11,100 p.a.

Rs 13,500 p.a. 2-stroke

Auto Owner -

Rs 100 (reg. servicing/

repairs)

Rs 1200 (reg. servicing/ repairs) + Rs 1200

(occasional expenses) Rs 2400 p.a.

4-stroke

Renter Drivers -

Rs 50 (reg.

servicing/minor repairs) Rs 600 Rs 600 p.a.

Rs. 11,400 p.a. 4-stroke

Auto Owner -

Rs 600 (oil) + Rs 150

(reg. servicing/ repairs)

Rs 7200 (oil) + Rs 1800 (reg. servicing/

repairs) + Rs 1800 (occasional expenses) Rs 10,800 p.a.

2-stroke

Owner Drivers

Rs 35

(oil)

Rs 875 (oil) + 150 (reg.

servicing/minor repairs)

Rs 10500 (oil) + Rs 1800 (reg. servicing/minor

repairs) + Rs 1200 (occasional expenses) Rs 13,500 p.a. Rs 13,500 p.a.

4-stroke

Owner Drivers -

Rs 600 (oil) + 200 (reg.

servicing/ minor repairs)

Rs 7200 + Rs 2400 (reg. servicing/ repairs) +

Rs 1800 (occasional expenses) Rs 11,400 p.a. Rs 11,400 p.a.

Operating Characteristics and Associated Economics

• De-mystifying the maintenance costs equation!

Traffic Police - roles and responsibilities

BASED ON TRAFFIC POLICE INTERVIEWS AND WEBSITE1 BASED ON AUTO DRIVERS SURVEYS/ INTERVIEWS

Traffic Offences Official Fine Amount (Rs)

What Auto Drivers Think The Official Fines Are (Rs)

What Auto Drivers Pay (Rs)

Carrying Excess Passengers in 3-Wheeled Vehicle 100/- for every excess passenger

- -

Speeding Over Maximum Limit 300 100, 300 100

Dangerous Driving-Transport Vehicle (Yellow Bd.) 500 - -

Drunken Driving court case/fine* court fine decided by magistrate

2500; court fine

Without Uniform 100 100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 1000

100, 200, 300

No Display Card Inside Auto court case/fine 100, 300, 500, 800, 2000-2500; court case/fine

100, 1000, 1800-2000, 2500; Book court case & fine (Rs 1000-2500)

Driving Without Auto Cab DL-Badge 300 300, 500, 1200-1500, 2000-2500; court case; 300+court case

100, 200-300, 400-500, 1000, 3000

Auto Owner Permitting A Person To Drive Who Has No DL-Badge

300 - -

Without Auto Cab Permit court case/fine 300-500, 2000-2500, 2500-3000, 5000; seize auto, court case/fine

100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000; auto is usually seized /compounded and booked with court case/fine

Without Registration Certificate (RC Book) court case/fine 100-300, 600-900, 5000; seize auto; RTO or court case/fine

100, 200, 1000; court case/fine

Without Insurance Certificate (IC) 500 200-300, 500-700, 1200-1500, 2000-3000; court fine

100, 200, 300, 500

Without Fitness Certificate (FC) court case/fine 200-500, 900, 3000-5000; RTO or court case/fine

100, 300, 1000; court case/fine

Without Emission Test Certificate (PUC) book case; RTO notice

100, 300, 500, 1000-2000, 2500; RTO or court fine

100, 500

Driving Any Vehicle Without Number Plate/ Invalid Number Plate

first time 100/-, 2nd & subsequent offences 300/-

- 100

Defective/Tampered Fare Meter 100 1500-2000, 3000; court case/fine

100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000-3000; send to RTO

Defective Silencer 100 - 100

Defective Head Light, Tail Light, No Rear View Mirror, etc

100 100 100

Emitting Black Smoke 300 100, 300, 500, 1000, 2000; RTO fine

100

Shrill Horn 100 - 100

No Parking or Wrong Parking (i.e. parking on footpath or away from it, near road crossing/ junction, traffic light or pedestrian crossing, school/bus stop/ hospital/ etc, on main road, opp. another parked vehicle, on white line or bend on top of hill, double parking, etc)

100 100 100

No Entry/ One Way 100 100 100

Jumping Traffic Signal 100 100, 300 100

Cutting Yellow Lane/Lane Discipline 100 - 100

1 Ref: http://www.bangaloretrafficpolice.gov.in/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=77&btp=77

On-ground Monitoring & Code Enforcement

• Computerised, Automated

to a fair extent!

• Corruption (bribery) still

issues!

• Lacking info/awareness!

Traffic Police - roles and responsibilities

Public Complaints System

The Transport Department Helpline Numbers are: 080-22254900 / 22353785 available from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm. How to file a complaint: Note the vehicle number (KA-XX-YY-ZZZZ) and email the details to [email protected]. Based on the prefix XX (for example KA-01), complaint will be sent to one of the 10 RTO offices in Bangalore and adjacent taluk areas. Alternatively, one can also call the respective RTO office numbers given below, based on the vehicle prefix number and directly lodge a complaint against auto drivers.

KA-01 Koramangala 080-25533525

KA-02 Rajajinagar 080-23324104

KA-03 Indiranagar 080-25254310

KA-04 Yeshwantpur 080-23376039

KA-05 Jayanagar 080-26630989

KA-41 Gyanabharthi 080-28602833

KA-50 Yelahanka 080-28561366

KA-51 Electronic City 080-25735522

KA-52 Nelamangala 08234-285598

KA-53 KR Puram 080-25617951 Once the complaint is received at the corresponding office, a notice is issued to the address of the vehicle's registered owner, requiring him/her to turn up at the RTO office within 7 working days. Every RTO has about 10 IMV (Inspector of Motor Vehicles) who seize the vehicles which don't report to the RTO. The penalty levied from the autowallas is Rs 100 under Section 200. The various offences among others for which one can lodge a complaint:

Refusal to come to destination (any destination!!!)

Demanding excess fare

Using rough language

Cheat the public e.g. taking longer routes

Faulty meter

Information to be provided by citizens while filing the complaint:

Driving license number

Auto registration number

Date and time of offence

Nature of complaint For more details, log on to: www.bangaloretrafficpolice.gov.in For complaints, one can either call: Central Traffic Control Room: +91-80 22943663 Source: http://www.mybengaluru.com/resources/3132-Auto-Rickshaw-complaints-Number-Toll-Free.aspx

Auto Drivers

‘Display Card’

Provision of Auto Stands

Training/Awareness Programs

Auto Unions - roles and responsibilities

• ‘Representatives & Voice’ of auto driver community;

safeguard interests, work for their benefit

• Lobbying & Talking to Government/Authorities

- decision-making, laws/regulations, conversion subsidy

- meter fares revision & system for arriving at

appropriate rates

- social/financial security - availing of govt. welfare/

benefit/aid schemesAccident Relief Fund

Janashree Bima Yojana

Health Insurance Card

Housing Scheme

• Other Support Activities

- key point-of-contact

- request for/deciding auto stands

- training/awareness programs

- help with all formal procedures

• Membership & Fees ; Perception

Auto Services - Public and Auto Driver’s Perspectives

Public Perspective

• Profile & user characteristics

• Experience & common complaints

• Awareness & experience regarding

features of the service

- Growing public complaints & frustration

(refusal, overcharging, tampered meters,

bad behavior, etc);

- Negative image of drivers (bad habits)

- Traffic cops not helpful

- Lack information/awareness regarding

auto stands, laws/rules, complaint

systems, shared or call auto services, etc

- Want improvement in services (open

towards new ideas/initiatives) & to be

involved in process, decision-making!

- Platform to submit complaints,

requests, suggestions; to interact &

problem solve

- Increase info/awareness for public &

soft skills training for auto drivers,

traffic cops

Auto Driver’s Perspective

• Experience, reasons for common complaints

• Awareness, perception, experience regarding features of

the service

- Avoid trips not gainful i.e. monetary losses in fines/bribes,

earning hours (empty/idle waiting) or fuel expenses

(empty/idle running) -

areas with no passengers

bad roads, traffic congestion (vehicle wear/tear, pollution

& stress)

lacking physical infrastructure (gas stations/auto stands)

mafias or harassment by cops, etc

- Or for personal reasons, heading home, etc

- Devise means to cut down empty waiting/running -

compact, mixed use urban areas

- Improve waiting meter fares, infrastructure, resovle

mafia issues, vehicle design/tech. for protection/comfort -

sign with light display, etc

Issues and Analysis Suggestions and Recommendations

Regulation: Policy, Laws

Auto Cab

Permits

• Closed Permit System: fear of oversaturation,

overplaying role - traffic congestion/chaos,

pollution, competition

• 1000+ new vehicles added daily; no cap on

private vehicles, buses, taxies

• No scientific rationale/study for deciding

appropriate auto numbers or permits to release

• Does not control numbers; instead, root cause of

illegal auto operations (invalid

permit/jurisdiction), permit mafias, black market,

middlemen, corruption, exploitation, etc

• Bangalore: significant PT availability, autos play

supplementary/complementary roles, potential to

increase share of PT as whole

• Provide ‘Open Permit System’ where market

(demand-supply/economics) balances numbers

• Currently new DL permit requires valid Auto

Cab DL-Badge & 1 person - 1 permit rule

• But all permits transferable (DL may have lock-

in); no eligibility criteria/checks for transfer -

loophole exploited by permit mafias/middlemen

• No validity/expiry period for ‘Permit

Endorsement Letter’

Permit

Eligibility &

Procurement

• Make permits non-transferable, except legal heirs

• Stipulate, enforce eligibility criteria, provide cap

for maximum permits allowed by single

person/DL-Badge to promote equitable distribution,

self employment, better accountability

• Define separate license, eligibility rules,

parameters for organised fleet-based services.

• Stipulate validity/expiry period for ‘Permit

Endorsement Letter’ (1 month extendable upto 3)

Green Tax &

Scrap/

Removal of

Old Autos

• Rationale behind defined tax amounts unclear;

conditions now outdated

• No rule for scrap/removal of old autos (beyond

particular age) from city

• Review, regularly revise tax amounts based on

scientific factors - added incentive to shift to

cleaner, greener vehicles

• Alternately, consider removal of autos beyond

particular age from city - number decided taking

relevant factors into consideration


Regulation: Licensing, Registration & Ratification (Vehicle Testing/Certification) Procedures

Auto Cab DL-Badge;

Auto Cab Permits &

Registration;

Vehicle Fitness (FC),

Fare Meter (MC),

Emission (PUC)

• New ‘single window’ RTO for everything

related to auto cab permits; DL-Badge

issue, auto registration, MC, FC to continue

at all 10 RTOs

• Unclear if all formal procedures have

been computerised, interlinked

• Dependence on largely visual checks,

manual processes of testing, certification &

record keeping result in inefficient, time-

consuming procedures, allowing for

malpractices (false passes, corruption) -

illegal autos/operations, drivers without valid

certificates or knowledge of rules, etc

• Lack of requisite resources - hard/soft

infrastructure, hi-tech equipments, trained

staff, different locations for different

functions, etc

• Streamline, use technology & automate (as far

as possible), computerise all formal procedures

with central regulation (like PUC) - making it

faster, efficient, less prone to irregularities

• Consider centralising all testing/certification

procedures at common locations - set up adequate

modern driving/vehicle testing facilities, either by

govt. or private sector

• Provide requisite infrastructure & manpower i.e.

computers, hi-tech equipments, training/capacity-

building of staff, etc

Open

Data Governance

• Lack of automation, computerisation of

all formal procedures

• Complicated formalities/paperwork &

undue delays compel people to approach

middlemen; pay extra commissions/bribes

• Lack of transparency, accountability in

service delivery, regulation, enforcement

• Effectively implement ‘Sakala’ scheme (April ’12)

• Automate, computerise all formal procedures

• Internal monitoring & accountability (unique

computer id’s for officers/employees)

• User-friendly public interface for information,

tracking status, submit complaints/grievances; with

follow-up action (penalisation & compensation)

• Provide option of online applications


Regulation: Monitoring and Enforcement Systems

Auto Cab DL-Badge;

Auto Cab Permits &

Registration;

Vehicle Fitness (FC),

Fare Meter (MC),

Emission (PUC)

• Lack of accurate, interlinked computerised

databases & inter-departmental

collaboration; leading to weak, ineffective

regulation, monitoring, enforcement systems- no registration, means to cross-check DL-Badge

authenticity across State

- no background check, physical address verification

when issuing DL-Badge, 'Display Card'

- no regular verification or updation of auto driver’s,

auto/permit owner’s contact details; optional during

DL-Badge renewal

- lack of interlinking with RTO’s owners/contact

details database; which is also outdated, inaccurate

- weak on-ground action - depts. understaffed!

• Maintain accurate, central computerised

records (across RTOs/State) of: auto cab DL-

Badge & permit details, associated auto

registration numbers & vehicle (type, age, etc)

details, driver, owner & contact details for policy

& informed decision-making, enforcing eligibility

criteria, regulation & share with concerned depts.

as key reference for all monitoring/enforcement

- police dept. should conduct background check, address

verification at time of issue of DL-Badge

- contact details verification/updation made mandatory at

time of DL-Badge, Permit & FC renewal

- link/share Transport Dept. (city/state-wide) DL-Badge

database with Traffic Police’s ‘Display Card’ database to

cross-check authenticity & effective monitoring

- link vehicle/meter details, PUC/MC/FC records to RTOs

permit, auto, owner’s & contact databases to nab autos with

faulty meters or invalid permits when they come for FC &

track pending cases to issue fine notices

- share as ref. with concerned depts. and/or Traffic Police

for on-ground monitoring, verifying pending cases/fines.

‘No Dues’ Certificate • Applicant collects ‘No Dues’ Certificate based on clean record from all Depts - at time of FC

• Process to be fully computerised & automated; facility made available at integrated

driving/vehicle test centers

• Auto with more than 'x' number (to be determined) of pending cases - immediate punitive &

corrective action; maybe higher fines for repeat offenders, permit liable to be cancelled, etc


On-ground

Monitoring &

Enforcement

• Traffic Police have no mandate or means to check,

take punitive action w.r.t. legality of auto cab

permits, FC/PUC, defective fare meters, etc.

• Can only book court cases - process too slow - do

not notify concerned dept.

• Except for random checks/test drives, concerned

dept. officers/inspectors rarely come onto roads,

rendering on-ground monitoring/enforcement

systems weak & ineffective

• Illegal operations rampant - traffic cops often

hand-in-glove; corruption/bribery, exploitation

• Lacking effectiveness, transparency, accountability

in action taken against traffic/permit violation or

public complaints

• Tackle monitoring/enforcement issues more

effectively with inter-departmental co-

operation; legal provisions backing it

• Consider empowering Traffic Police with

relevant reference records (on Blackberries) &

devise means for more immediate punitive &

corrective action, apart from court cases

• Engage public to help in ground monitoring;

‘master/no dues’ certificate displayed in auto

• Build in transparency & accountability through

use of technology - automate, computerise,

interlink whole process, with public interface

• Incentivize traffic cops; benefits in cash or kind

Public

Complaints

System

• Different depts. have own complaint system/

numbers; confusing/complicated for public;

information/awareness also lacking

• Lack of effectiveness, transparency, accountability

in action taken; resulting in lack of trust/faith

• Small % complaints reported; many invalid

• Traffic Police process computerised/automated;

not so with Legal Metrology & Transport Depts (?)

• RTO's database of auto registrations, owner's &

contact details (which all depts/action depend on),

outdated & inaccurate; nearly impossible to

locate/contact rightful owner; can only nab on road

or at time of FC; also req. accurate computer record

• Streamline system, make efficient & user-

friendly. Centralise (anchored by single agency

- TP), good public interface (to track complaints)

• Design system to reduce invalidity; increase

public awareness

• Process should be fully computerised,

automated & backed by accurate reference

databases shared between concerned Depts.

• RTO databases need to be complete,

regularly verified, updated & accurate

• Provide requisite infrastructure & trained staff

TRANSPORT DEPT LEGAL METROLOGY ETCs TRAFFIC POLICE

License:

Auto Cab DL-Badge holders across city/state RTOs

Testing and Issue, Renewal and Cancellation procedures. Contact: Address/Phone details of license holder – mandatory verification/updation at time of 3-yr license renewal.

Traffic Police's Auto Driver's 'Display Card' details

Permit: Auto Cab Permit holders across city RTOs - issue, renewal, transfer, cancellation procedures. Registration: Associated Auto Registration numbers across city RTOs - de-registrations (scrapped), or conversions (change of class to private, or sent to other jurisdiction) Contact: Address/Phone details of permit/auto owner - mandatory verification/updation at time of 5-yr permit renewal.

Traffic Police's database of booked cases of traffic offences, violation of permit conditions, criminal records etc. Consider sharing Permit database with Traffic Police for better on-ground monitoring/enforcement as RTO officers/inspectors do not conduct regular roadside checks?

FC: Auto details such as make, engine/fuel/meter type, engine/chassis/lpg kit/meter serial numbers, etc and; FC test/certification records.

Fare Meter: Fare Meter details such as make, serial number, etc and; Meter test/ certification records

PUC: Emission test/ certification records

Consider sharing FC/Fare Meter/PUC databases with Traffic Police for better on-ground monitoring/enforcement as RTO, Legal Metrology and Pollution Control Board officers/inspectors do not conduct regular roadside checks?

Contact: Address/Phone details of permit/auto owner - mandatory verification/updation at time of yearly FC renewal.

License/Contact Databases Shared for Cross-Reference and Monitoring

Registration/Contact Databases Shared for Cross-Reference and Monitoring

Traffic Police Violation Databases Shared for Cross-Reference and Monitoring; Permit liable for cancellation if it crosses a certain number (x) in 5 years

Streamline - Automate - Computerise - Interlink - Maintain accurate/updated databases - relevant

information sharing & inter-departmental co-operation for effective regulation, monitoring, enforcement!


Traffic Police

- Specialized

Department

• Traffic Police not a specialized dept;

officers/inspectors periodically transferred

• All fine collections go to common pool/

general govt. revenue - lack control over use

of these funds

• Consider making Traffic Police a specialized dept,

more transparent, accountable; regular training/

awareness programs for officers/inspectors

• Create special fund from traffic/permit violations,

public complaints fines & make available to Dept. for

specific purposes - like providing requisite

infrastructure, staff, incentive schemes, etc

Physical Infrastructure: Pumping Stations and Auto Stands

LPG Pumps/

Stations

• Inadequate gas/fuelling stations in certain

parts of city (esp. outer peripheral areas);

reason for refusal

• Provide adequate, well-distributed and

appropriately located gas pumps across city

Auto Stands -

Regular and

Pre-Paid/Pre-

Fixed Fares

• Autos seen as major contributors to traffic

congestion/chaos; stop/park anywhere

• Lack adequate, appropriately located auto

stands in many parts of city; reason for refusal

• No formal platform for auto drivers/public

to submit requests, track action taken, decision-

making process

• Existence of mafias (nexus between traffic

cops & auto drivers based on bribes) at major

transport/commercial hubs, most pre-

paid/fixed-fare auto stands - perpetuating

corruption & exploitation!

• System of fare calculation unclear, non-

transparent, inaccurate fare slips, illegal

service charge collections, etc leading to

public losing trust/faith

• Provide adequate, well-distributed, appropriately

located auto stands (reg., pre-paid/fixed) across city

• System for deciding locations to be transparent,

accountable; with public interface to submit requests

& track status

• Stands easily recognisable, with proper signage

• Develop appropriate software/technology

(progs./phone apps. using GPS) to accurately

calculate fares between O-D; make system at pre-

paid/fixed fare stands fully automated &

computerised to reduce corruption, increase

transparency, accountability


Vehicle Design and Technology

Policy, Laws, Regs;

Databases;

Subsidy Schemes;

Info./ Awareness;

Maintenance

Schemes, Fitness

Test/Certification;

R&D For Improved

Vehicle Des./Tech.

• Autos considered major sources of noise,

air pollution; partly issue of improving

vehicle design/technology, maintenance &

its enforcement

• New Regs: 4-stroke, LPG, electronic

meters - less noisy, polluting, more tamper-

proof; still scope for improvements -

ongoing!

• Lack of computerised records of fleet

composition - age, make, engine, fuel,

meter, etc

• Burden/cost of all conversions borne by

auto owner/driver; economic pressures...

• Govt. subsidy schemes not very successful

for various reasons ... ...

• Prefer 2-strokes for different reasons;

skewed perceptions ... ...

• Poor vehicle maintenance & non-

conformance to norms; partly due to

neglect, avoiding maintenance costs,

inefficient & ineffectual vehicle fitness

testing, monitoring/enforcement systems

• Can tamper all meters, though newer

electronic more difficult. Alter other

components like smaller tires, less air, etc

• Maintain accurate, updated computerised

database of vehicle details for policy, informed

decision-making

• Stop/curb sale of loose, crude oil to reduce

pollution from 2-strokes

• Invest in R&D to improve vehicle

design/technology (greener/cleaner, efficiency,

durability, comfort, safety, etc) - conversion to 4-

stroke, use of CNG or alternate fuels like hydrogen,

electric/hybrid vehicles, renewable sources (solar-

powered rickshaws), etc

• Incentivize shift with enabling policy, regulations,

information/awareness campaigns to tackle

misconceptions & highlight benefits - economic,

environmental, health, etc

• Comprehensive conversion policies -

streamlined, transparent, accountable for easy

delivery, building trust; info/awareness efforts. Fix

subsidy amounts in tune with ground realities,

combine with easy bank loans, micro-finance

• Ban mechanical meters; GPS-enabled tamper-

proof fare meters, smart phone apps. to accurately

calculate distances/fares or meters only show dist.

• Build robust vehicles for longer service life, lower

maintenance costs, better resale value; reduce

component costs!


Financing Mechanisms

Banks v/s

Private

Financiers

• Lack access to easier bank loans, due to: bank

wariness, more formalities/safeguards & time-

consuming approval procedures; lead or compel

going to private financiers, charging higher interest

rates, penalties; or unregistered money lenders (for

2nd hand autos - deal in black money)

• PF fund approval simpler, convenient, much faster;

esp. through reliable guarantor (known agent/

broker) - applicant pays extra commissions, added

financial pressures

• Banks less successful in debt recovery -

Hypothecation Act: ownership claim, recovery means

• Streamline bank procedures - make simpler, faster

• Devise special govt-supported, easy auto loan

schemes, where banks have more powers related

to 'claim of ownership‘ & 'means of recovery'

(non-payment); like Hire Purchase Act

• Explore other innovative finance mechanisms -

micro-finance, 'group as guarantor' schemes,

'seed money' funds set up by social venture

capitalists, government (annual auto insurance), etc

Information/Awareness and Training Programs

• Many entering auto trade esp. uneducated,

unaware, unfamiliar with formal procedures,

compelled to go to middlemen & pay more

• Many auto drivers unfamiliar with traffic/

driving/road safety rules & official fines, at times

paying heavier bribes

• Public unaware or ill-informed about applicable

rules, offences & official fines, complaint systems,

pre-paid/fixed-fare or dial-up auto services

• Different depts/agencies involved in conducting

training/awareness programs for auto drivers, but

efforts un-coordinated, irregular, poorly attended!

• Streamline complicated formal procedures where

possible, make easily accessible to audience

• Create training programs/outreach material on

relevant aspects using different media, local

languages; for auto drivers, public users, visitors

• Auto driver training/awareness programs need

to be co-ordinated (anchored by single agency),

streamlined & conducted regularly - mandated at

time of issue/renewal of DL-Badge, Permits

• Provide effective incentives (govt. aid schemes) to

get voluntary attendance. Have economic/ revenue

model to sustain efforts


Middlemen

• Amending laws/regulations (open, non-transferable permit system); streamlining complicated formal procedures where

possible; use of technology (automation, computerization) to improve efficiency, transparency, accountability; and

effective information/awareness campaigns - will automatically help reduce the role of ‘middlemen’

Auto Unions

• Numerous big/small auto unions/gps in city;

at times having differing opinions or agendas

• Many also informally help auto

drivers/members with all formal procedures -

usually for a fee/commission (operating like

middlemen); at odds with their understood

purpose or role

• In general have a bad image/reputation

(existing for own political/business interests);

many auto drivers do not trust, want to join

• Envisage better structure (organised, stronger coalition) of

auto unions/gps in city - 'umbrella organisation', federation or

trust, formally registered & recognised; having better access to

govt. welfare/benefit schemes for members. Common platform

for various factions; mission/goals clearly defined; democratic,

transparent, accountable body, to build faith & change their

negative perception

• Any aid with formal procedures, done officially with receipts

• Work more visible, substantial & benefits obvious - auto

drivers would join voluntarily

Auto Meter Fares

• Revisions only considered with fuel price

hikes; formula/calculation mechanism unclear,

or if factors like 'cost of living' index, etc

considered?

• Deregulation of LPG prices - mechanism for

dealing with demand to increase meter fares?

• Waiting meter fares understood to be very

low; reason for refusal, overcharging

• Need rational/scientific, transparent system for regular

review/revision & arriving at appropriate auto meter fares;

waiting meter charges. Factors like minimum monthly income,

'cost of living' index, etc also to be considered

• Auto fare meters can only show 'distance travelled' with

RTA approved rate cards - save time/money for recalibration,

also more tamper-proof

• Consider offering some govt. subsidy in auto LPG prices to

keep fares affordable; benefit auto drivers, public users


Social/Financial Security, Government Aid Schemes

• Unorganised sector depend on daily earnings, no

legal safeguards for financial/social security

• Receive little if any subsidy/aid from govt. or civil

society organisations

• Govt. welfare/benefit schemes not easily

accessible, partly due to lack of awareness,

complicated procedures or at times turned into

political gimmicks.

• Sometimes rules/regulations twisted & loopholes

exploited (like valid DL-Badge!)

• Eligibility rules, process of application, selection &

disbursal, not always clear, transparent

• Increase awareness & make govt. welfare/benefit

schemes easily available to all auto drivers

• Plug loopholes in eligibility criteria to ensure it

reaches right/intended recipients

• Streamline process, automate/computerise, build in

transparency, accountability with a public interface

• Explore innovative ways of garnering funds - like

using unclaimed vehicle insurance, etc

Stakeholder Dialogue and Collaboration

• Larger common concerns, stakeholders (at higher

levels) get together to discuss/consult for problem

solving, operationalizing plans. Otherwise,

interaction often indirect/informal

• Currently no formal platform to facilitate

stakeholder dialogue & collaboration

• Institute a formal platform to facilitate regular

dialogue among stakeholders, interdepartmental co-

ordination/co-operation to address & resolve problems

facing autorickshaw sector, improvement of services

• Authorities should consult public users & auto

drivers at large (apart from just union/gp leaders),

while making polices or taking decisions affecting them

• A forum for both auto drivers, public users - to have

their voices heard, dialogue, submit grievances/

complaints or request for auto stands, make suggestions

for improvement of services, etc


Special Schemes

• Fleet-based dial-up services (Easy Auto),

issues arising from:

- lack of adequate studies/market research

- absence of GPS devices on autos

- non-viable/unsustainable revenue models

(unable to collect service charges or sustain

internal advertising)

- unavailability of permits, no

ownership/control over fleet or drivers

- pre-planning all auto trips not feasible;

connection/confirmation process complicated

- lack of proper auto stands where two parties

can locate each other, etc

• Conduct further in-depth studies, market research &

pilots to assess demand & potential of introducing

organised fleet-based, dial-up auto services, alongside

regular services as supplementary/complementary measure

• Incorporate lessons from previous experiences -

ownership & control over substantial fleet (availability of

auto cab permits, access to easy finance schemes), improved

vehicle design/tech. (GPS/RFID/Smart Cards), viable

revenue models with supporting laws/regulations if required

(eg. for outside advertising), provision of supporting hard/

soft infrastructure (auto stands, call centers, trained staff, etc)

Other Suggestions/Recommendations

• Map 'place &time matrix' of demand, to help inform new schemes/initiatives, where specific improvements are req.?

• Based on in-depth studies, pilot exercises explore possibility of formalising ‘shared’ auto services in specific areas

where market demands. Bear in mind related problems of overloading, monitoring, safety, traffic

congestion/management, competition/rivalry & monopoly issues - need to be addressed & planned for beforehand

• Explore mode integration schemes to increase share of PT. Auto feeder services with fixed fares, routes, stops within

certain range of Metro/BRT stations; could also be fleet-based with fare integration through smart cards