SHARED AUTOS WILL ‘FARE’ WELL

SHARED AUTOS WILL ‘FARE’ WELL
This System Will Create A Win-Win Situation For Commuters As Well As Autorickshaw Drivers, Feel Bangaloreans

Should shared-auto
system be introduced on Bangalore roads?
First the fuel price hike triggered higher bus fares and now it’s the turn of auto meters to tick faster. The latest development has only added fuel to fire. For the common man, travelling in an auto has become a ‘luxury’, and then one has to be lucky enough to come across sane auto drivers who are willing to go by the meter. A shared-auto system will be a welcome move as many Bangaloreans are willing to utilize this facility. I RAMESH BABU J
This has been a long-pending requirement in the city. The system, if introduced with adequate checks and balances, will help both commuters as well as autorickshaw drivers. The applicable meter fare has to be divided and fixed by the government, and strict rules have to be enforced to provide timely service, comfort and safety to commuters.
I D R PRAKASH
Certainly, the shared-auto system has many advantages. To begin with, the system works out to be economical. Also, shared autos are safe for women and school kids, particularly working women who travel at odd hours. Further, this system will help ease out rush in buses.
I JAGADEESH KALMATH
Before introducing the system in Bangalore, the modalities of running it need to be worked out thoroughly vis-a-vis eliciting response from parties concerned — users and service providers. However, for those not inclined to share autorickshaws, there’s always a fall-back option in the form of public transport, which is doing a decent job of providing succour to scores of commuters. With the commissioning of Metro soon, there is further hope for harried commuters. As such, the sharedauto system will have few takers and wouldn’t be a success in the long-run.
I M V KRISHNA
Shared autos from point-to-point are already working well in some areas, especially where bus connectivity is poor. It’s a win-win situation for commuters as well as auto drivers. But, this won’t work in areas with adequate bus facilities. For long-distance travel, fewer would opt for this system. Also, auto drivers would lose out on business if they wait for long hours to get enough passengers to ferry to a specific destination.
I N PADMANABHAN
NOT A SAFE IDEA
With 80% of auto drivers out to exploit the public, this system will not work. Also, given the crime rate, one wouldn’t want to share a ride with a stranger. Such a system will succeed only when known individuals decide to share public transport.
I M V NAHUSHARAJ
Such a system is not advisable. With the kind of crime and corruption already prevalent in the city, sharing autos can become a risky proposition. In fact, the move can fuel many a crime, and women will be at high risk. I VIMALA KESARI
The option of shared auto is a welcome step in the context of rise in fares. This system is already in vogue in areas like Vijaynagar. However, it should be ensured that vehicles are not loaded beyond permissible limits. Autos are a quick means of transport and sharing them will create healthy competition for overloaded BMTC buses.
I B N GOVINDARAJU
Shared-auto system should be introduced and be based on meter sharing. The system will work out only when passengers travel from point to point. This will require the consent of passengers as well as auto drivers. Otherwise, passengers will be harried and over-pricing will continue. I N KESRI
This system should be introduced. It’ll make travelling easier and economical. Considering the soaring prices, it’s a welcome idea. I would also recommend the introduction of cycle-rickshaws. They are cheaper and a clean means of transport.
I DILIP KALYALKAR
IT’S WORKED WELL IN OTHER CITIES
The shared concept is not new. In fact, many cities in the north have this in place. Here, people are yet to get used to the idea. It’s also got to do with a city’s attitude. Many here may think of this system as downmarket. But in the present scenario, this seems to be a good way out. And due to affordability, this system will benefit students in particular.
I N R NAIR
Rise in auto fare has left us with very little option but to think of sharing and saving. Shared-auto concept has been a success in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata. I see no reason why it shouldn’t work out in Bangalore.
I TARUN K JAIN
The common man will suffer the most. The chances are, fewer people will hop in an auto now. And if this were to happen, drivers will also be hard hit. In such a situation, a shared-auto system would create a win-win situation for both passengers and autodrivers.
I SATYA SOWMAY, STUDENT
BMTC buses are better and cool. In the city, shared autos aren’t required. On the outskirts, they are fine. In a way it’s good the fare has gone up. More Bangaloreans will opt for BMTC bus services now.
I RANGA