The Delhi Transport Department is likely to begin process of introducing additional 45,000 autorickshaws in the Capital.
The Supreme Court which had earlier lifted the cap of 55,000 TSRs recently asked the Government to implement its previous order. It has been nearly two years since the order for increasing number of autorickshaws to one lakh was passed. Few days back, the Supreme Court had sent an instruction to State transport department, to increase number of autorickshaws from 55,000 to one lakh considering increase in population in the Capital.
The letter mentioned that people from reserved categories should also be issued permits. As per the letter, around 4,600 persons from SC category have to be accommodated for permits while 2,830 in Schedule Tribe category and 9,200 in OBC category should be issued permits. Senior official of the State transport department said that 45,000 drivers for autorickshaws have to be issued permits.
State Transport Authority has decided to invite applications from people falling under SC/ST and OBC categories. last date for submitting application is May 31. Owner of vehicle should possess a valid licence. The autorickshaw permit would be transferable for five years except in case of death of permit holder as prescribed in Section 82 of MV Act.
The electronic fare meter fitted in TSR should be GPS/GPRS integrated, approved and tested by Controller of Weights and Measures Department. Women applicants shall be given priority. Delhi Transport Commissioner Puneet Kumar Goel said that they have started the process of inviting applications and the process will be completed soon.