Hubballi: With no regulations governing autorickshaws operating within the premises of KMC-RI Hospital, visitors to the medical facility say they are being forced to pay steep fares for even short trips.
Autorickshaw drivers are charge Rs 100 for a solo ride and Rs 30 per passenger on a shared basis, visitors said, adding to the financial burden on patients, attendants and their families. Stay updated with the latest Hubballi news.
Raveesh CR, DCP (crime and traffic), Hubballi-Dharwad police commissionerate, said a meeting would shortly be held with KMC-RI authorities to streamline the autorickshaw service system within the hospital premises. Download the TOI App.
Vijaylakshmi Kolar from Koppal said even passengers willing to share a ride end up paying more than they expect, while those requiring a solo ride have little choice but to pay Rs 100.
Autos have fixed fares for short and popular routes such as the Old Bus terminal and Hosur Cross bus stop — both located close to the hospital, according to visitors. They said these fares are disproportionate to the distances involved. Many commuters, including those accompanying patients, said they opt for autos to avoid delays and the discomfort of having to travel in packed buses. A system of regulated fares, clearly displayed at the premises, along with monitoring auto operations, could help prevent overcharging, she said. KMC-RI superintendent Dr Ishwar Hasabi said the hospital had not received any formal complaints about auto fares.
The problem is particularly acute during rush hours, when buses are overcrowded. But the high fares are making the option increasingly unaffordable. Outstation visitors and those unfamiliar with local fares are particularly vulnerable to overcharging. Sukanya Patil, a resident of Old Hubballi who visits KMC-RI, urged authorities to regulate auto fares in and around the hospital. Without any such mechanism in place, passengers have little option but to accept the fares demanded by drivers, Patil added. He, however, assured the hospital authorities would speak to those concerned and work towards regulating auto fares in the near future.