The much-anticipated prepaid autorickshaw service at Mumbai airport's Terminal 2 has encountered a hurdle before its formal launch. The NGO assigned to manage the facility has requested a significant increase in the convenience fee from Rs 20 to Rs 50, citing operational expenses and payments to the airport operator for space usage.
Infrastructure Ready, Fee Dispute Lingers
According to stakeholders involved, the infrastructure for prepaid booths is nearly complete, and the service could commence immediately upon approval of the revised fee structure. However, the demand has raised concerns among commuter groups, who argue that the increase would make an already costly option even more expensive for passengers.
Transport activist Maqbool Mujawar stated that prepaid autorickshaws typically charge 20-30% higher than metered fares depending on distance, and an additional convenience fee would further burden travelers. "The hike will add to the prepaid tariff and will not go down well with commuters," he said.
Auto Unions Defend Fee Hike
Auto union representatives insist that the current Rs 20 fee is unviable. Mujawar, who is also associated with auto unions, explained, "For prepaid taxis, Rs 70 is the present convenience fee. We cannot afford to run the stand with such a low Rs 20 convenience fee and have demanded an increase." He added that the collections would cover manpower and operational costs, with a portion going to airport authorities and some earmarked for welfare support for auto drivers' families.
Under the proposed operating model, autorickshaws entering the system will undergo registration and multiple checks before receiving tokens to pick up passengers. Around 35 to 40 personnel across shifts are expected to man the booths. The NGO "Happy to Help" is set to oversee booth operations, while auto union members will coordinate on-ground movement.
Benefits of Prepaid System
The push for prepaid autos comes amid recurring complaints of rogue drivers fleecing passengers at airports. Prepaid systems record driver and vehicle details and lock fares in advance, reducing disputes and overcharging, while also offering drivers assured pickups and incentives.
Former MP and Shiv Sena leader Gajanan Kirtikar met transport commissioner Rajesh Narvekar on Tuesday and said he submitted a petition supporting the fee hike, claiming the commissioner responded positively. Sources indicate that the transport commissioner is likely to forward the proposal to the MMRTA for clearance.
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About the Author
Somit Sen, Senior Editor at The Times of India, Mumbai. He covers stories on Power beat in Maharashtra and on Oil & Gas. He also covers RTO, BEST (Mumbai's public transport buses), transport ministry, Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation, interstate transport (trucks/tempos) and the fleetcabs.
