High autorickshaw fares in Mumbai have long been a grievance among commuters, and Mumbai Police is stepping up to tackle the issue head-on. On Thursday, the Mumbai Traffic Police posted a helpful video on its official social media account, guiding citizens on spotting “fast meters” in auto-rickshaws that might be causing inflated bills.
Here’s what to look for-
In the video, an officer highlights a blinking red light at the far right of the meter, indicating potential malfunctions. He emphasises that only one red light should appear after the fare amount. Additionally, he demonstrates how pressing a button can cause the meter to run faster, underscoring the importance of vigilance.
Wondering how your auto-rickshaw bill is travelling faster than light? No rocket science – here’s a simple guide to help you identify whether the Auto Rickshaw meter is faulty or not.
Stay aware, identify, and complain about the faulty meters.#MTPCommuteTips pic.twitter.com/0NXhOozoMl
— Mumbai Traffic Police (@MTPHereToHelp) October 23, 2024
The initiative has sparked considerable debate online, with some commuters calling for a complete overhaul of the traditional meter system in favour of mobile apps. “Remove the meter concept altogether. Let drivers use mobile apps like Ola or Uber. No manipulations anymore,” suggested one social media user.
However, the revelation has also led to confusion among passengers, with many reporting that all auto-rickshaws seem to have the blinking light. “The dot appears when the auto is moving and disappears when stationary. Isn’t that normal?” questioned another commuter.
For now, Mumbai Police urges citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious meters, taking one more step toward ensuring fair fares in the city’s bustling streets.
