In a move aimed at bolstering passenger safety, the Transportation Department of Burari DTO (Delhi Transport Office) has mandated the installation and activation of GPS devices in auto rickshaws. The implementation of this measure signifies that auto rickshaws lacking an active GPS system will not pass the fitness test, consequently hindering their ability to obtain a fitness certificate.
Immediate Compliance Required for Auto Rickshaws
Auto rickshaw drivers are urged to promptly activate their GPS systems, as failure to comply will result in actions under the Motor Vehicle Act of 1988. However, this directive has faced opposition from certain auto unions, despite its importance for the approximately one lakh auto rickshaws operating in Delhi.
Rationale Behind the Decision
A senior official from the Transport Department clarified that while GPS installation in auto rickshaws is not mandatory under the Motor Vehicle Act, the state government has the authority to make it a requirement. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance passenger safety, especially for women, by facilitating easy tracking of autos in emergency situations. It’s noteworthy that Delhi had active GPS systems in autos from 2012 until January 31, 2020, before the Transport Department suspended the requirement in February 2020.
Opposition from Auto Taxi Union
Santosh Pandey, the president of Your Own Auto Taxi Union, has expressed opposition to the new order, citing the suspension of the GPS requirement in auto fitness by the Transport Department’s Special Commissioner in February 2020. He argues that attempting to enforce this without a written order from the Commissioner is incorrect. Pandey also highlights that autos were excluded from the GPS ambit by the Indian Government in November 2016 but were later mandated to have Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTD) installed in October 2018, along with a panic button.
Appeal for Compliance
Kishan Verma, the president of the All Delhi Auto Taxi Transport Congress Union, has appealed to auto drivers to activate their GPS systems to obtain the fitness check certificate. He underscores the significance of this measure for the continued operation of auto rickshaws and the safety of passengers.
