Parked In Chaos

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Auto-rickshaws are a lifeline for urban commuters in India, but lack of dedicated stands often turns convenience into chaos. As cities like Rajouri, Mangaluru, and Gurugram push for structured boarding zones, the debate continues: can designated auto-rickshaw stands really improve traffic flow and commuter experience? Or is there more to the puzzle of urban transport management in smaller cities?

Source: Unsplash

India’s very first auto-rickshaw was introduced in 1959 by Bajaj Auto. Since then, the 3-wheeler has transformed itself into one of the most reliable urban modes of transportation in the country.

As per a study, it is estimated that around 4 to 16 auto-rickshaws serve every 1,000 people on average in the Tier-I and II cities.

Even though the 3-wheeler offers affordable door-to-door transportation to the public, it is also often cited as one of the reasons behind traffic congestion. Auto-rickshaws stopping midway, randomly to pick up and drop the riders is a common sight in many Indian cities. Lack of dedicated stands for boarding and disembarking is the most common problem associated with auto-rickshaws. Lately, there has been a demand to end this problem, both from users and drivers.

Prepaid autorickshaw counter at Mangaluru junction | Source: The Hindu

Autorickshaw stand at HUDA City Centre | Source: Hindustan Times

In September this year, residents of Jammu & Kashmir’s Rajouri demanded dedicated auto stands to facilitate commuting. Even the auto rickshaw drivers have complained of facing several problems, as they are not allowed to park their vehicle on the road for boarding passengers.

In order to strengthen the movement of auto-rickshaws, which account for more than 90% of the movement of passengers in the town, they have appealed to devise a proper movement policy and stands for the 3 wheelers. Similarly, the auto-rickshaw unions in Mangaluru and Gurugram have been demanding to create autorickshaw stands in the cities for a long time.

A well-designed public transport system increases its efficiency and could also help in reducing traffic congestion in Indian cities. City buses still have some designated stops and depots, but the Intermediate Public Transport like autos, vikrams and e-rickshaws, often lack dedicated infrastructure. To read about Rajouri, click.

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