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From November 1, the pre-paid autorickshaw counters in Thiruvananthapuram will be operational again. These counters have been inactive for several years. Initially set up to provide safe and fair-priced rides, they stopped functioning due to the pandemic. Even after restrictions eased, issues like staff salaries and operational costs prevented their reopening.
The city once had nine such counters at locations including Gandhi Park, Padmanabhaswamy Temple, KIMS Hospital, Pettah Railway Station, Medical College, Power House Road, Thampanoor Bus Station, and Thampanoor Railway Station. Currently, only a few are active due to low revenue. The initiative was launched during V Sivankutty's tenure as mayor.
Revival of Pre-Paid Counters
The traffic advisory committee recently decided to revive all pre-paid autorickshaw counters. This includes those at the Medical College Hospital (MCH) and Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, two of the city's busiest spots. The closure had significantly impacted visitors to these locations. MCH attracts patients from across Kerala and neighbouring states.
To make the service more viable, the charge for pre-paid autorickshaw rides will increase from Rs 2 to Rs 3. Additionally, counter staff will receive an extra Rs 100 per duty shift. "The pre-paid autorickshaw counter will be a boon to the hundreds of patients and bystanders arriving at the MCH," said Medical College councillor D R Anil.
New Counters and Operational Hours
Plans are underway to introduce two new pre-paid counters at Lulu Mall and Mall of Travancore. The Auto Drivers' Association (CITU) district secretary Jayamohan K mentioned that the union has proposed these new locations within city malls.
Some existing counters will operate for only 12 hours daily; however, those near bus and railway stations will remain open round-the-clock. Jayamohan K added that autorickshaw drivers are encouraged to use these counters to ensure the initiative's success.
The reopening of these counters is expected to curb overcharging by drivers. It aims to provide a reliable transport option for residents and visitors alike in Thiruvananthapuram.
