- Bhopal cracks down
Bhopal: The District Administration in Bhopal is poised to implement stringent measures against the burgeoning and often unregulated e-rickshaw operations, with strict enforcement and fines set to commence in the first week of August. The crackdown aims to curb widespread disregard for new regulations, particularly concerning student transport and restricted routes.
Under the fresh directives, e-rickshaws are now completely prohibited from serving as school vehicles, meaning students are no longer permitted to use them for commuting to and from educational institutions. Furthermore, these electric three-wheelers face an outright ban on approximately 12 key routes across the city, designated to alleviate traffic congestion and improve commuter safety.
Despite these clear mandates, many e-rickshaw operators have continued to flout the rules. Consequently, the Traffic Department is gearing up to enforce compliance rigorously starting potentially from August 4th. Operators found violating these regulations will face immediate penalties and challans (fines).
It’s noteworthy that Bhopal currently has over 10,000 e-rickshaws in operation, yet a staggering 80% of them are reportedly operating without adherence to legal norms, proper documentation, or valid permits. This impending enforcement signals a concerted effort by the local administration to bring order to the city’s rapidly expanding e-rickshaw fleet and ensure public safety.
