Auto rickshaws in Belagavi
Traffic police estimate that over 12,000 autorickshaws operate in Belagavi. Social activists claim more than 4,000 autos continue to operate illegally despite inspections by transport officials and police. Auto Drivers Association president Mansoor Honagekar said a meeting convened by the district administration with auto drivers, police and legal metrology officials had fixed Rs 37 as the minimum fare for 1.6km.
The problem worsens at night when public transport options become limited, they said. There are also allegations that thousands of unauthorised autos ply with fake licences or without registration numbers. Social activist Prashant Burge alleged that the district administration, RTO and police were aware of complaints about excessive fares, but enforcement remained inadequate. However, a meeting proposed by the regional transport commissioner before implementing meter-based fares is yet to be held.